Bill > H5187

This bill expands the definition of "employee" in Rhode Island's Labor Relations Act to include teaching assistants, research assistants, fellows, residential assistants, and proctors who perform services for an employer in return for compensation, regardless of their student status. The bill clarifies that the Labor Relations Board (the board) has the authority to establish standards for deferring unfair labor practice charges to allow the grievance and arbitration process to move forward under the charging parties' collective bargaining agreement. Additionally, the bill specifies that the board maintains jurisdiction to issue a complaint and make a ruling on an unfair labor practice charge, even if a related grievance is pending. The legislation also mandates that the board promulgate rules for electronic filing of various labor-related documents, such as cards of interest and designation of bargaining agent forms. By expanding the definition of employee and providing more flexible procedural options, the bill aims to enhance labor protections and streamline dispute resolution processes in the state's labor relations framework. The act will take effect immediately upon its passage.

Labor and Employment

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