Laws that protect workers?
I wish. To be fair, there may be laws, but as someone once said, they are "more honored in the breach than in the observance." But seriously, the only reason you should have a problem with a union "extorting" higher wages and benefits is if YOU AREN'T PART OF THE UNION. Quit complaining about those who get a bigger share of the pie they've contributed to, and go out and get union representation.