Dems flee the state in 3. . . 2. . . 1. . .

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A hearing on a bill that could strip public employees of collective bargaining rights drew thousands of protesters to the Statehouse on Tuesday afternoon.

Union leaders said their members and supporters will rally at the state capitol, as lawmakers continue hearings on Senate Bill 5, 10TV’s Danielle Elias reported.

The Republican-backed measure would end collective bargaining rights for state workers and restrict teachers, firefighters, police, and university employees.

The bill was proposed by Sen. Shannon Jones, and is supported by Gov. John Kasich.

If the bill passes, it would end collective bargaining rights for state workers, and set up a merit-based pay system.