The Columbus Dispatch just reported that a county fired its law firm because the firm allegedly supports SB 5. Downes, Fishel, Hass and Kim are a well-respected public sector management-side labor law firm.

Mahoning County fires Columbus law firm, saying it backs SB5
Friday, March 11, 2011 11:47 AM

Associated Press
YOUNGSTOWN — An Ohio county has fired a law firm that was criticized by organized labor over a bill to limit collective bargaining for public employees.

Mahoning County commissioners voted yesterday in Youngstown not to have Downes, Fishel, Hass and Kim represent the county in labor talks. Union leaders last week confronted county officials over the Columbus-based firm.

Commissioner John McNally IV said he and his colleagues rescinded the contract because they were concerned about its cost and the firm’s involvement with the collective bargaining legislation, Senate Bill 5.

Union leader John Michaels called it a Republican law firm with political ties to GOP Gov. John Kasich, who supports the bill.

Founding partner Jonathan J. Downes told The Vindicator newspaper of Youngstown that the firm “leaves politics at the door” when representing the county.