Connecticut House Bill HB05658

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/17
• Refer: 1/13/17

Caption

An Act Prohibiting State Employee Collective Bargaining Agreements From Preventing The State's Use Of Volunteer Services.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would enable the state to engage volunteers in a more flexible manner. It would effectively negate any language in future collective bargaining agreements that might limit or prohibit the employment of volunteers. The potential positive outcomes suggested by proponents include increased efficiency and resource availability, particularly in public service sectors where volunteer contributions can significantly supplement government efforts.

Summary

House Bill 5658 aims to amend the general statutes to prevent state employee collective bargaining agreements from including provisions that would restrict the state's ability to utilize volunteer services. The bill was introduced to the General Assembly by Representative Carpino and was referred to the Committee on Labor and Public Employees. The primary intent of the bill is to ensure that the state can access volunteer labor without hindrance from collective bargaining agreements established with employee organizations.

Contention

However, the bill could face opposition from labor organizations that argue such measures undermine employee rights and diminish the role of paid workers in favor of unpaid volunteer labor. Critics might assert that this approach could lead to a devaluation of state employment and could undercut the job security of existing employees. There is an inherent tension between the desire to expand volunteerism and the need to protect the livelihoods of state employees, which could lead to vigorous debate during legislative discussions.