Gov. Dunleavy signs order that would affect state worker unions

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Gov. Mike Dunleavy has signed an administrative order he says is needed to protect free speech rights of state employees and whether they want to associate with unions.

The order calls for new procedures to allow employees to opt in or out of paying dues and fees. The administration argues these steps are needed to comply with a U.S. Supreme Court decision.

This follows a lawsuit initiated by the state that seeks a court order allowing it to stop deducting dues or fees from an employee’s check when the employee no longer wishes to contribute to a union.

A major public emp...