Dear Neighbors,
It’s hard to believe, but we’re already into the month of July! Please join me this Independence Day in celebration of our great nation and the many freedoms we hold dear. I wish you and your loved ones a safe and festive holiday.
Last week, the United States Supreme Court made a landmark ruling in a case called, Janus vs. AFSCME case. The Supreme Court ruled that public sector unions may not coerce “agency fees” from non-union members because it violates the First Amendment, overturning the 1977 decision in Abood v. Detroit Board of Education that had previously allowed such fees.
This is a monumental ruling that will have large reaching impacts on public sector unions across the nation, including here in Minnesota. The coming months and years will reveal the full impact of this decision in Minnesota, but I am glad that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the First Amendment and free speech.
Another case decided by the Supreme Court in recent weeks was a case that overturned Minnesota’s ban on political clothing at the polling places.
The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice John Roberts, stated that the law in Minnesota gave too much discretion to volunteer election judges trying to figure out what counted as “political” and what did not. The statute in question was signed into law in the late 80s by Governor Rudy Perpich.
Following the vote, Secretary of State Steve Simon, sent out a memo to election officials making them aware of the Supreme Court’s decision. I would expect the legislature to address this statute in the coming session to ensure that state law is constitutional.
Staying in Touch
As we move into summer, please know that I am always available to chat about matters related to state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-2907 or via email at rep.linda.runbeck@house.mn.
Have a great day!
Linda