Politics & Government

Dave Thompson: Repeal 'Harmful' Child-Care-Provider Union Law

The state senator from Lakeville, who's running for governor, responded to two rulings to let possible unionization proceed.


State Sen. Dave Thompson (R-Lakeville) posted a strong reaction at his gubernatorial campaign website Monday after weekend court rulings that let efforts to unionize home daycare providers proceed: 


“On Sunday, July 28, 2013, The Honorable Michael Davis issued an order dismissing claims against Governor Mark Dayton pertaining to the childcare unionization legislation that was passed and signed into law during the 2013 legislative session. Of course, I am saddened by the decision, but am glad Judge Davis left the door open for the childcare providers to re-assert their claims at a later date.

“It is sad that these independent business people must work through the courts to try and stop the impact of this damaging law. This is what happens when elected officials put political interests ahead of the people. Governor Dayton and Democrats in the legislature have chosen to reward campaign contributors and union bosses while at the same time bullying childcare providers, most of whom are self-employed women.

“Rest assured if I am honored to be your next governor, I would make it a priority to repeal this ill advised and harmful law. This is an example of special interest politics at its worst, and Minnesotans should not stand for it.”

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According to Minnesota Public Radio's Capitol View blog, U.S. District Judge Michael Davis wrote in one of the rulings: “Plaintiffs request that the Court peer into a crystal ball, predict the future, and then opine on the constitutionality of a speculative scenario."

MPR also quoted a statement from Gov. Mark Dayton: "“I believe that working men and women should have the right to vote on forming a union, and that the Court’s decisions will permit such an election to be held.”
 

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AFSCME Council 5 issued a press release with this statement from spokesperson Jennifer Munt:

“These quick rulings show that the Minnesota Legislature has the right to let child care providers vote on a union. ... It shows that the state also has the right to bargain with caregivers who are paid by the state.”


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