Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB907

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/24
• Refer: 1/4/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Ratification of the agreement negotiated between the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Wisconsin State Building Trades Negotiating Committee, for the 2023-24 fiscal year, covering employees in the building trades crafts collective bargaining unit, and authorizing an expenditure of funds. (FE)

Impact

The bill directly impacts state laws by formalizing the financial commitments made by the University as part of the collective bargaining process. By approving this ratification, the legislature confirms that the costs associated with this labor agreement will be funded through statutory program supplement appropriations, thereby influencing the financial landscape of state employment policy. The ratification also signifies the state's acknowledgment of labor relations and the importance of fair agreements between employers and employees, especially in essential sectors such as construction.

Summary

Assembly Bill 907 is a legislative proposal aimed at ratifying a tentative agreement negotiated between the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Wisconsin State Building Trades Negotiating Committee for the fiscal year 2023-24. This agreement specifically pertains to employees within the building trades crafts collective bargaining unit, which encompasses various unions representing skilled laborers and workers in construction trades. The ratification of this bill is necessary to authorize the expenditure of funds that will satisfy the terms of the negotiated agreement, providing important financial backing to support the contract's implementation.

Contention

While there may not be significant visible contention surrounding AB907 as seen in legislative committees or voting records, discussions related to similar labor agreements often raise concerns about the allocation of state funds and the impact on taxpayer resources. Opponents may argue that any increased expenditure for labor agreements should be carefully scrutinized, leading to debates on budgetary priorities within the state. However, proponents suggest that investing in labor relations is essential for ensuring ongoing support and stability in crucial sectors and maintaining a skilled workforce in the state.