On Monday, a Wisconsin judge ruled in favor of public union workers, giving them back their collective bargaining rights that had been stripped away by a 2011 law.
Dane County Circuit Judge Jacob Frost decided that parts of Act 10, also known as the Wisconsin Budget Repair Bill, violated the state constitution. This law, introduced by then-Governor Scott Walker, aimed to reduce state costs by limiting pay and taking away collective bargaining rights from union workers. The move sparked national outrage and weeks of protests when it was first passed.
Unions argued that Act 10 unfairly restricted their ability to organize and speak out, violating their First Amendment rights. Judge Frost agreed, stating that some parts of the law were created “without a rational basis” and were therefore unconstitutional.
The ruling drew mixed reactions. Democrats supported it, calling it a victory for workers, while Republicans worried it could lead to higher costs for taxpayers.
Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos criticized the decision, saying Act 10 had saved taxpayers over $16 billion. He promised to fight the ruling in an appeal.
Meanwhile, supporters of the ruling, like State Representative Ryan Clancy, celebrated it. Clancy, a former teacher, said Act 10 had harmed educators, schools, and communities. He called the judge’s decision an important step toward fair treatment for workers.
The fight over Act 10 has lasted for years, with previous courts upholding the law. Monday’s decision marks a major moment in the ongoing debate about workers’ rights in Wisconsin.
djustments!