Wisconsin Senate Bill SB337

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/15/23
• Refer: 6/15/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Ratification of the agreement negotiated between the state of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin State Attorneys Association for the 2022-23 fiscal year, covering employees in the professional legal collective bargaining unit, and authorizing an expenditure of funds. (FE)

Impact

By ratifying this agreement, SB337 directly impacts state labor relations and establishes a framework for the continuation of collective bargaining practices in Wisconsin. The approval signifies the state's commitment to uphold negotiated contracts, which is essential for fostering a professional and supportive environment for state attorneys. The bill not only assures the compliance with the terms agreed upon but also potentially sets a precedence for future negotiations and funding requirements for similar employee groups under state employment.

Summary

Senate Bill 337 aims to ratify the collective bargaining agreement negotiated between the state of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin State Attorneys Association for the 2022-23 fiscal year. This agreement covers employees within the professional legal collective bargaining unit and is aimed at formalizing the terms of employment negotiated under the State Employment Labor Relations Act. The bill authorizes necessary expenditures from state appropriations to fund this agreement, ensuring that the legal professionals represented by this union will receive the agreed-upon benefits and compensations.

Contention

While the bill itself may not present significant points of contention in the legislative discussion, broader debates regarding funding state employee contracts and labor relations are expected to arise. Concerns may include the implications of budgetary commitments required under this agreement versus competing demands for state funds in other areas such as education and infrastructure. Additionally, stakeholders within and outside the legal profession may express varying opinions on the adequacy of the negotiated terms, reflecting differing priorities in state employee compensation and benefits.