Bill > H2359

This bill provides for binding arbitration for firefighters and police officers in the event of an impasse in contract negotiations with their municipal employers. The bill establishes an arbitration process where a three-member panel or a single arbitrator selected by the parties or the state labor board will hear the issues in dispute and select the "last and best offer" of either the employer or the employee organization. The arbitrator's decision is final and binding, though the scope of arbitration is limited to certain matters like wages, hours, and working conditions, and does not include inherent managerial decisions. The bill also outlines the factors the arbitrator must consider in making the decision, such as the financial ability of the municipality, the interests of the public, and comparisons to other similar public and private sector employees.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H2359