Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB405

Introduced

2/21/23

Refer

2/21/23

Caption

In employee rights, providing for reporting of dues and for annual report; in Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board, providing for report availability; and, in collective bargaining agreement, providing for forwarding agreement to board.

Impact

If enacted, SB405 would significantly affect current practices related to employee rights and labor relations. It would introduce explicit reporting requirements, aimed at increasing the visibility of financial transactions associated with union dues and other related agreements. This could lead to a more informed workforce regarding the costs and commitments associated with their union participation. Moreover, the bill seeks to streamline processes at the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring timely access to vital information for stakeholders.

Summary

SB405 addresses critical aspects of employee rights in the context of labor relations by emphasizing the need for enhanced reporting processes related to union dues and agreements made during collective bargaining negotiations. The bill mandates that such agreements be documented and that these documents be made readily available through the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board. This initiative aims to bolster transparency and accountability within labor organizations and their financial dealings, ensuring that both employees and employers are well-informed about collective agreements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB405 appears generally supportive from advocacy groups focused on transparency in labor practices. Proponents argue that the bill protects employees by providing them with necessary information to make informed decisions regarding union membership and participation. However, there may also be concerns from some labor groups about the implications of increased scrutiny and the potential for administrative burdens on unions. Therefore, while the overall sentiment seems positive, it is tempered by apprehensions from specific quarters regarding the practicality and impact of the reporting requirements.

Contention

Some points of contention have emerged during discussions around SB405, particularly regarding the extent of the reporting requirements and the potential financial burdens they may impose on labor organizations. Critics may voice concerns that while transparency is essential, overwhelming reporting obligations could impede the effectiveness of unions in advocating for workers' rights. The balance between accountability and administrative feasibility is a critical theme that underpins the debate surrounding the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB397

PA HB834

In employee rights, providing for conditions of collective bargaining agreement; and, in scope of bargaining, further providing for maintenance of membership.

PA SB399

Providing for notice and disclosure of proposed collective bargaining agreements and related documents and for open records.

PA HB861

Further providing for definitions; providing for notice and regulations; further providing for unfair labor practices and for representatives and elections; providing for initial collective bargaining agreement; and further providing for prevention of unfair labor practices and for penalties.

PA SB757

Providing for notice and disclosure of proposed collective bargaining agreements and related documents and for open records.

PA HB1029

Further providing for definitions; providing for notice and regulations; further providing for unfair labor practices and for representatives and elections; providing for initial collective bargaining agreement; further providing for prevention of unfair labor practices and for penalties; and imposing penalties.

PA HB883

Project labor agreements; prevailing wage, collective bargaining for employees of local governments.

PA HB947

In Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board, providing for update of operating technology and practices.

PA SB374

Project labor agreements; prevailing wage, collective bargaining for employees of local gov'ts, etc.

PA HB263

In definitions, further providing for the definition of "maintenance of membership"; in employee rights, further providing for lawful activities and providing for rights and privileges and for civil actions; and, in scope of bargaining, further providing for proper subjects of bargaining.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.