CT Business Group Sues State Over Captive Audience Law

CONNECTICUT — The Connecticut Business and Industry Association and U.S. Chamber of Commerce filed a federal lawsuit against the state in an attempt to challenge the captive audience law.

The law took effect on July 1 and generally protects employees from being penalized if they refuse to attend employer-sponsored meetings that are intended to convey employer opinions on religious or political matters, including matters related to joining labor organizations. The bill passed the legislature with almost no support from Republicans.

CBIA didn't take the decision to file a lawsuit lightly, CEO Chris DiPentima said.

“This is solely about correcting a policy decision that exposes employers to expensive and time-consuming complaints and litigation for simply communicating openly with their employees," he said in a statement.

CBIA and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce argue in the suit that Connecticut's law violates free speech rights guaranteed by the First Amendment and the National Labor Relations Act.

“Over a decade ago, the Chamber sued the state of California over a similar law and won in the U.S. Supreme Court,” said Glenn Spencer, senior vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “We’ll continue to defend an employer’s right to share opinions with employees so that they can make informed decisions.”

The lawsuit is being reviewed by the State Attorney General's office, a spokesman said to Patch.

Public union AFSCME Council 4 voiced support for the bill during the 2022 legislative session.

"Recent polls have shown support for labor unions at a near all-time high yet
membership remains low which shows how laws are geared against workers," AFSCME Council 4 Executive Director Jody Barr said during testimony on the bill. "The
decision to join a union free on intimidation or coercion should be a basic right afforded
to workers."