Skip to content

Public Sector Unions Dodge A Bullet With Friedrich’s Decision


A much anticipated decision was released last week in which the U.S. Supreme Court was deadlocked (4 to 4) on a challenge to so called “service fees” charged to employees who opt out of union membership.  The lawsuit was based upon a lawsuit brought by a number of California teachers who objected to being required to pay the fee (typically almost the same cost as union dues) if they chose not to join the union.  While the plaintiffs have announced their intent to request re-argument once a new justice is appointed replacing deceased Justice Antonin Scalia, for now the decision stands, meaning public sector unions may continue to require that non-members pay a “service fee” in states that allow it, including Connecticut.