Controversial collective-bargaining measure clears Wisconsin Assembly

By Nicholas Riccardi and Abigail Sewell

In a speedy late-night vote that angered Democrats, Republicans in the Wisconsin Assembly push through Gov. Scott Walker's plan, which would strip most government workers of collective-bargaining rights. But Senate Democrats continue to stall a final vote by remaining out of state.

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  Opponents of Gov. Scott Walker's budget protest in front of the offices… (Andy Manis, Associated Press)

LA Times--Feb. 25, 2011--Reporting from Madison, Wis., and Indianapolis — The Wisconsin Assembly early Friday approved a measure to strip most government workers of collective-bargaining rights, but the measure's fate remains in limbo with Democrats still out of state to prevent a vote in the state Senate.

Shortly after 1 a.m., Assembly Republicans, who
control the lower chamber, abruptly cut off debate
after 60 solid hours of discussion and approved the
bill, 51-17. The tally was taken so quickly that most
Democrats didn't have a chance to vote.