Dear neighbor,
Last night we received word that the childcare unionization lawsuits brought forward by the childcare providers opposed to unionization were dismissed.
While the judge’s ruling was disheartening, it was far from upholding the Democrats’ childcare unionization law. In two of the major claims brought by childcare providers, the judge stated it was simply too early and too speculative to rule on the merits of the case at this point in the process.
I understand that Doug Seaton, attorney for the child care providers, is deciding whether to re-file the lawsuit in the event a union is formed or is considering an appeal of Judge Davis's decision. It’s clear that this is going to be a long fight in court. I’ll continue to stand with the hard-working childcare providers who know this is bad for kids, parents, and their business.
As I reflect on where we are in this process, I can’t help but think of the last day of session when we were debating this issue. Before we had even finalized a budget, the Democrat leadership forced a vote on unionizing childcare providers. The vote prevailed by 68-66 – the bare majority needed to pass a bill in the House. If one Democrat had changed their vote, we wouldn’t be here today. It’s very disappointing and I think the people of Minnesota expect better.
I’ll continue to keep you updated as we learn more about the next steps in the legal process relating to this law.
As always, please feel free to contact me by e-mail at Rep.Mary.Franson@House.MN or contact my office at 651-296-3201. You can also send mail to my office address: 211 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155.
Sincerely,
Mary