Arizona 2022 Regular Session

Arizona Senate Bill SB1553

Caption

Public employees; collective bargaining

Impact

The enactment of SB1553 would significantly influence state laws regarding labor relations. It mandates public employers to engage in good faith negotiations with labor organizations, which are recognized as the exclusive representatives of public employees. This includes the establishment of grievance procedures that are aimed at addressing disputes arising under collective bargaining agreements. By formalizing this process, the bill seeks to protect public employees and provide them with mechanisms for recourse against unfair practices by employers.

Summary

SB1553, introduced by Senator Quezada, establishes a framework for collective bargaining for public employees in Arizona by amending Title 38 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. The bill creates Chapter 9, known as the Public Employee Bargaining Act, which defines key concepts including 'appropriate bargaining unit' and 'exclusive representative.' The legislation intends to facilitate the negotiation of employment terms such as wages, hours, and working conditions between public employers and labor organizations representing public employees, thereby enhancing workers' rights and protections in Arizona.

Contention

Despite its intentions, SB1553 may face opposition concerning its implications for public employee rights and employer responsibilities. While supporters advocate for enhanced employee representation and better working conditions, critics may argue that it could lead to increased costs for public employers due to mandatory negotiations and potential disputes. Furthermore, the bill prohibits strikes and lockouts, which could lead to debates about worker rights versus government interests in maintaining stable public services. The balance of power between public employers and labor organizations remains a point of contention in discussions surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ SB1449

Collective bargaining; warehouse employees; quotas

AZ HB2682

Collective bargaining; warehouse employees; quotas.

AZ HB2736

Antidiscrimination; public accommodations; employment; housing

AZ SB1377

Employment; housing; public accommodations; antidiscrimination

AZ HB2625

Antidiscrimination; employment; housing; public accommodations

AZ SB1136

Employees; school conferences; leave

AZ HB2534

Native American tribes; TPT collection

AZ HB2190

Prohibited agreements; public works contracts.

AZ HB2333

Prohibited agreements; public works contracts

AZ SB1117

Criminal justice data collection; system.

Similar Bills

AZ SB1684

Public employees; collective bargaining

AZ SB1670

Public employees; collective bargaining

AZ HB2942

Firefighters; bill of rights

AZ HB2159

Law enforcement officers; polygraph; examinations

AZ HB2903

Individual savings plan program; appropriation

AZ HB2839

Individual savings plan program; appropriation

AZ SB1084

Public retirement systems; administration

AZ SB1669

State employees; meet and confer