Sunshine heat wave comin’ your way

    I’m writing my monthly column for the Missouri Press Association’s magazine for members today, and it dawns on me that all of you who read this blog, for whatever reason, should be aware of a case decided earlier this summer by the  8th Circuit Court of Appeals.  It’s called Lindsey v. City of Orrick, Mo.  You can find it on the court’s website, which is located  here.  Go to the left, where it says “search descriptions,” click on that and on “party name” and type in “Lindsey.” 

    It’s number 11 in the list.  I’ll try adding a link here  directly to the case, but earlier today I tried to follow a link someone else did and it didn’t work, so you’ll be able to find it either way.

    The gist of this case, in short, is that if you are an employee of a public body and you complain about violations of the sunshine law by that body, your firing is a violation of your First Amendment rights unless the court finds that managing sunshine law matters is within the scope of your duties.

    It should give some support to beleaguered city employees who know about such violations but fear losing their jobs if they complain.  What you are doing is a matter of public concern and you have a right to be heard on the issue!