Dems absent after right-to-work debate

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Democrats were no-shows at the Indiana House of Representatives Tuesday, as a legislative battle over proposed right-to-work legislation continued.

On Monday, the Indiana Senate passed its own right-to-work bill, but the House is still wrangling with its own version of the Republican-backed bill.

Not enough Democrats were present Tuesday to conduct business in the House, after lawmakers on Monday debated the bill in House chambers. Democrats are upset after they say House Speaker Brian Bosma, R-Indianapolis, cut off debate when Democrats still had amendments to offer.

Democrats have contended that the hotly-debated labor issue should be decided by voters on a ballot referendum. Republicans have countered that the move would be unconstitutional.

Speaker Bosma plans to reconvene the house again at 3:30 p.m. At that time, fines are likely to be imposed on Democrats for not being present.