WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from former Connecticut Gov. John G. Rowland over claims his administration violated state employees’ constitutional rights when it laid off 2,800 workers based on their union membership in 2003.
The justices did not comment Tuesday in turning away Rowland’s appeal, including his contention that the case could have national implications because it would hamper governors during labor negotiations.
Last year, the New York-based federal appeals court ruled against the Rowland administration and ordered a trial judge to decide on an award for the laid-off employees. The appeals court also ruled that Rowland and his then-budget director, Marc Ryan, could be sued individually.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor did not take part in the court’s consideration of the case. She previously served on the appeals court.
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