Florida Teacher Unions Sue Over New Law Restricting Public Employee Unions

Teachers unions in Florida have filed a lawsuit against a new law that places additional restrictions on public-employee unions, alleging that it violates First Amendment, equal-protection and contract rights. The unions claim that the law is political retaliation by Governor Ron DeSantis, who has repeatedly clashed with them over education policies. The law prevents dues from being deducted from workers’ paychecks, requires gauging how many eligible employees are dues-paying union members, and requires unions to have audited financial statements. Supporters say the law provides more transparency to workers about unions, but union leaders say it is about political retribution.