Conservative lawyers sue to end State Bar dues
Saying they should not be forced to subsidize diversity programs or efforts to help immigrants at the border with Mexico, three conservative lawyers are seeking to overturn Texas laws that require attorneys to join the State Bar of Texas and pay annual dues.
In a federal lawsuit filed in Austin, the lawyers argue that being forced to pay dues that support inherently political or ideological priorities violates their free-speech rights.
The First Amendment, they argue, protects not only the right to speak freely, it also protects from being forced to associate with ideas or beliefs they find objectionable.
If the Bar believes these political and ideological activities are worth pursuing, it can fund them through voluntary contributions or seek direct appropriations from the (Legislature), the lawsuit said.
Read more: https://www.statesman.com/news/20190314/conservative-lawyers-sue-to-end-state-bar-dues