Setback on the Union Lawsuit Front

From the major Sacramento newspaper, where free registration might be required:

Judge rejects bid to halt union levy for ballot fight

Story appeared on Page A3 of The Bee

A Sacramento federal judge Friday rejected a request from about 4,000 state employees for an order barring special payroll deductions for a union fund to fight two of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's initiatives on Tuesday's ballot.

U.S. District Judge Morrison C. England Jr. had issued a temporary restraining order Wednesday prohibiting the deductions.

But after a lengthy hearing Friday, England decided not to issue a preliminary injunction, which would have remained in force until the lawsuit is resolved on its merits.