Wisconsin Protest Update: Day 1 & Legislator Call Line

[Chipster]

Wisconsinites bused from across the state to rally in Madison against newly-elected Republican Governor Scott Walker's plan to end public employee collective bargaining.

A public hearing begun Tuesday morning lasted until 3 AM Wednesday morning, when Republican legislators ended it; Democratic legislators said they would continue to hear those who wanted to speak.

The Joint Committee on Finance will vote on the bill today. The legislature will vote on the bill tomorrow, Thursday.

Among the bill's union busting provisions is one that requires annual re-certification of union representation by workers.

Supporters can use the AFSCME toll-free line to tell their legislators to vote against Walker's union busting bill: 1-877-753-5578.

Workers displayed protest signs including:

"If Wisconsin is broke, why did Walker use taxpayer $ to go to the Super Bowl?"

"Walker's Labor Policies: Let the Brain Drain Begin"

"Dear WI, We're the folks who brought you weekends, work comp, OSHA, Social Security, and Unemployment. Yours truly, WI Unions"

Negotiate! Not Dictate

Taking our contract doesn't solve the budget mess

United We Bargain, Divided We Beg

The crowd of protesters broke out in loud cheers when firefighters joined in support.

Although national media coverage has been very limited (but mega thanks to Ed on MSNBC for his great coverage with our own John Nichols), Fox 11 media was on the scene.

Fighting Bob is proud!