Public employee collective bargaining is right for Indiana. Collective bargaining for public employees will lower turnover costs. Skilled, experienced and satisfied workers are more productive. Channels of labor and management communication will be enhanced.
The Indiana State AFL-CIO will support legislation which includes the following elements:
1. Coverage - All public employees, including;
a) State employees
b) Public safety employees
c) University employees
d) Employees of local government with population of 5,000 or more
e) Non-certified school employees
Note: Provides that coverage be extended to local units of government who have pass resolution by city or county council. Does not mandate collective bargaining.
2. No strike provision with severe penalties for violations.
3. Provides fact-finding to help parties find ways to settle agreement prior to arbitration.
4. Establishes Public Employee Relations Board (PERB) to administer and conduct elections, hear unfair labor charges. Three members appointed by the Governor.
5. Grandfathers existing bargaining relationships.
6. Gives legislators sole authority to appropriate money to implement wage and benefit settlements for state employees. |
