When Fremont, Calif.-based special needs instructor Bethany Mendez looks at her paycheck, she is regularly reminded of how her employer violates her First Amendment rights daily.

Even though Mendez has demanded in writing to leave the California Teacher’s Association (the sole union designated by California to represent public school teachers), the union continues to deduct over $1,500 in dues annually. In high-priced Northern California, that’s enough to pay a medical bill or put new tires on the family vehicle. And Mendez is not the only one. Thousands of teachers just like Bethany across California are also seeing money disappear from their checks without their authorization and over their express written objections.