Union Appeals Florida Ruling

Last month, the Center for Independent Employees (CIE) and our client Kelley LaBedz secured a major win against the Martin County, Florida teachers’ union. Despite the strong, clear ruling from Florida’s Public Employees Relations Commission, the union has now filed a notice of appeal.

Here’s a quick refresher on what was at stake—and what we won:

• Kelley, a former Florida teacher and teachers’ union board member, was expelled from her union without notice or a hearing after raising questions about union finances.

• The Commission ruled the union violated her rights—both by denying her access to financial records and by expelling her in violation of their bylaws and without due process.

• Most importantly, the decision set a new precedent: Public-sector unions in Florida must now give their members notice and a chance to be heard before expelling them.

This victory vindicates Kelley and affirms constitutional protections for every public-sector employee in the state. Rather than accept the ruling and a new standard of accountability, however, the Martin County teachers’ union is choosing to appeal.

Given the Commission’s thorough ruling, we are optimistic about the final outcome of this case as we continue to fight for the rights of Kelley and all employees. 

Stay tuned.

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The Center for Independent Employees (CIE) is a 501(c)(3) legal defense foundation that provides legal representation and assistance to independent employees who are opposed to union oppression in their workplaces.