Three central Indiana teachers unions are suing the state over a new law they say violates teachers’ constitutional rights to free speech. Senate Enrolled Act 251 requires teachers to opt in every school year via a consent form and then again by email to have union dues automatically deducted.

The complaint seeks an injunction from a federal district court. It states the new law would interfere in existing collective bargaining contracts between unions and school districts. Plaintiffs said the new authorization process will be an onerous burden on teachers, schools and unions.

Groups who advocated for passage of the contentious law in the Indiana General Assembly said it gives teachers more rights by allowing more opportunities for them to opt out of union dues. They also pushed for a provision in the law that dictates specific language must be delivered to teachers saying in large bold font that they do not have to join the union.

Federal judge Debra McVicker Lynch on Thursday granted an expedited briefing for the case, with both parties needing to file additional documents with the court by June 28.

Contact reporter Justin at jhicks@wvpe.org or follow him on Twitter at @Hicks_JustinM.