Madison Reporter

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway issued a statement on July 4, 2024, regarding Judge Jacob Frost's ruling on Act 10. The decision marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over workers' rights in Wisconsin.

“This Independence Day, Wisconsin can celebrate a crucial step towards restoring a fundamental freedom that helped the state prosper for more than a century," Rhodes-Conway said. "Judge Jacob Frost’s ruling on Act 10 is a return to treating workers fairly by recognizing the right of all public employees to collectively bargain."

Act 10, passed in 2011 under then-Governor Scott Walker, led to widespread protests and controversy. The legislation has been criticized for its impact on unionized workers and local governments.

"In 2011, then-Gov. Scott Walker sparked months of protests by rushing through the passage of Act 10," Rhodes-Conway stated. "This anti-union legislation pits workers against workers, and local governments against their employees. Within the confines of this restrictive law, Madison did its best to treat its entire workforce with dignity and respect."

Rhodes-Conway highlighted the adverse effects of Act 10 on employee morale across various sectors in Wisconsin.

"Even so, Act 10 left an indelible mark on employee morale felt by teachers, state workers, and city staff in every corner of Wisconsin," she noted. "Act 10 is yet another impediment imposed by the State that takes away local control in order to advance a divisive partisan agenda."

The City of Madison is currently evaluating the implications of Judge Frost's ruling for its employees.

"The City is still studying the impact of this ruling and what it means for our employees moving forward," Rhodes-Conway said. "But I’m hopeful this is the beginning of a new chapter where all workers, once again, have a seat at the table.”