DOJ insists judge should stay union ruling

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Department of Justice has filed another round of briefs urging a judge to stay a ruling that struck down large portions of Republican Gov. Scott Walker’s contentious collective bargaining law.

The provision stripped most public workers of nearly all their union rights. Dane County Circuit Judge Juan Coals ruled earlier this month the law violates teachers and local government workers’ free speech, free association and equal protection rights.

Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen has asked for a stay while he appeals.

DOJ attorneys filed documents with Colas on Friday reiterating the request. They argued the law doesn’t prohibit public workers from associating with each other or speaking freely. They added Colas’ decision has created confusion among municipal employers.