Michigan, long known as a mainstay of organized labor, on Friday became the first state in decades to repeal a union-restricting law known as "right-to-work" that was passed over a decade ago by a Republican-controlled Legislature.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Friday signed a package of bills repealing the state's so-called "right to work" law that allowed workers to opt out of unions, a long-sought victory for labor organizers facing an era of diminished power.

Michigan became the first state in decades to repeal a right-to-work law that allowed workers to opt out of paying union dues and fees. The change goes into effect 90 days after the current legislative session ends.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer repealed the state's right-to-work law on Friday, handing a major victory to labor unions.

Unions flexed their muscles in the state after facing setbacks over the past decade that resonated nationally.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also signed a bill restoring the state’s “prevailing wage” law to boost pay on government-funded projects.