MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. (AP) - A conservative group is working on legislation to let lawyers opt out of paying mandatory dues to the State Bar of Michigan.
Greg McNeilly of the Michigan Freedom Fund, a proponent of Michigan's right-to-work law, says attorneys should have the same rights as other workers who can choose not to pay union fees. To practice law, lawyers must be in the Michigan bar and pay annually.
McNeilly says attorneys could still be required to pay license fees like other professionals, but they shouldn't be forced to pay dues under a 1935 law.
The dues fund an attorney discipline system, client security fund and other expenses.
The Michigan Freedom Fund, which also wants a right-to-work law for police and firefighters, announced the lawyer legislation at a Republican conference on Mackinac Island.
