Wisconsin Judge Rules Union Law Not in Force

A Wisconsin judge ruled a law restricting collective-bargaining rights for state public workers isn’t yet in effect, six days after a state agency posted the legislation on the Internet.

Dane County Circuit Court Judge Maryann Sumi today issued a revised order expanding the terms of a temporary restraining order she revamped once following a court hearing on March 29.

“It is hereby declared that 2011 Wisconsin Act 10 has not been published,” as that term is defined by state law, she said in her order. Publication of the law is the final step toward giving it force and effect.

Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne sued to invalidate the measure signed by Governor Scott Walker on March 11, arguing it was the product of a state open meetings law violation. Madison, the state’s capital city, is also the Dane County seat.