Teachers sue to reinstate collective bargaining restrictions

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MADISON, Wis. (AP) – A group of teachers is demanding a judge re-instate portions of Gov. Scott Walker’s contentious collective bargaining restrictions.

Dane County Circuit Judge Juan Colas last year found the restrictions as they apply to local public unions unconstitutional.

Last week Colas found the Wisconsin Labor Employment Relations Commission in contempt for continuing to prepare certification elections for hundreds of local unions next month despite his ruling.

Five teachers filed a lawsuit Tuesday in Waukesha County Circuit Court demanding a judge order the commissioners to proceed with the elections. They argued Colas’ ruling isn’t binding statewide and they have a right to vote.

They’re also seeking a declaration that if the elections aren’t held they’re not bound by any union contract with their districts.

The 4th District Court of Appeals is reviewing the contempt finding. WERC attorney Peter Davis said if that court reverses the ruling the commission could hold the elections.