Public employment: notifications and right of intervention.
Impact
The provisions of AB672 significantly alter the legal landscape for public employees and their employers in California by reinforcing the role of PERB in labor relations. This bill requires parties seeking to obtain court orders to prevent strikes to formally notify PERB, thereby positioning the Board as a critical player in civil litigation concerning public employee labor actions. Furthermore, it codifies the need for parties to exhaust administrative remedies before proceeding with court actions, ensuring all potential resolutions are considered within the administrative framework before seeking judicial intervention.
Summary
AB672, introduced by Assembly Member Caloza, aims to enhance procedural clarity regarding civil actions related to labor disputes involving public employees. The bill mandates that any plaintiff initiating a civil action seeking injunctive relief against strikes or work stoppages by public employees governed by the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) must serve notice of the action to the general counsel of PERB. This enhances PERB's ability to monitor and potentially intervene in relevant labor disputes, ensuring that unionized labor rights are upheld and that the statutory responsibilities of governing officials are maintained.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding AB672 appears generally supportive among proponents of strong labor relations frameworks, as it strengthens the oversight role of PERB and protects public sector labor rights. However, concerns have been raised by some parties about the added bureaucratic steps and potential delays that might arise from increased notification requirements, which could complicate urgent labor actions. This dual sentiment reflects ongoing debates about balancing efficient labor relations with the need for oversight.
Contention
One notable point of contention is the requirement for plaintiffs to notify PERB before seeking injunctive relief, which some argue could hinder prompt resolutions to labor disputes. It raises questions about the efficiency of adjudicating labor-related issues, particularly during urgent strikes or negotiations, where immediate judicial intervention might be necessary. Opponents may express concerns that this bill imposes excessive procedural hurdles and delays in addressing critical labor disputes.
Authorizes issuance of protective orders for certain victimized persons in situations for which domestic violence statutes do not apply due to lack of familial or dating relationship between victim and offending actor.
Report on the residue from the special committee of the House to examine the returns of the votes for Representative in the several representative districts of the Commonwealth relative to the second Essex District