Senate passes bill opposed by teacher, state employee groups

The Alabama Senate passed a controversial bill on Friday that would stop the state from deducting dues for organizations or political action committees from the checks of state employees.
After hours of debate on the issue, senators passed the bill 22-12. The bill now goes to the House for debate.
Democrats believe the bill is politically motivated and is aimed at the Alabama Education Association and the Alabama State Employees Association. They said the bill could gut the organizations that represent teachers, other state employees, retirees, and state troopers.
Republicans believe that state resources should not be used to collect dues for organizations that are politically active.
The Senate still has several bills on its agenda for Friday including an ethics overhaul, a ban on state employees serving in the Legislature, and a proposal that would give more power to the Alabama Ethics Commission.

-- posted by Sebastian Kitchen