Union: Lack of Capitol access is contempt

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Public employee unions have accused state officials of restricting access to the Wisconsin Capitol building despite a court order opening it to the public.

Three unions filed a motion in Dane County Circuit Court on Thursday accusing the state Department of Administration of defying Judge John Albert’s order last week. The order came after DOA officials imposed tight access restrictions at the Capitol in hopes of defusing massive demonstrations that clogged the building for days.

Albert ordered DOA to restore public access to the levels before the protests began. The unions say on March 9 only one entrance was open even though the state Senate was in session.

A spokesman for the state Department of Justice, which is representing DOA, had no immediate comment.