Bill > HB2471

This bill establishes a framework for collective bargaining for employees in Washington State who are not currently covered by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), the federal law that governs most private-sector labor relations. The bill's primary purpose is to ensure that if federal law no longer preempts state regulation of private sector labor-management relations, or if certain employers or employees fall outside the NLRA's jurisdiction, Washington's own laws will apply. It defines key terms like "collective bargaining" and "employee," and establishes the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) as the body responsible for overseeing these processes. The bill outlines procedures for certifying bargaining representatives, conducting elections, and resolving labor disputes through mediation and arbitration. It also clarifies that existing collective bargaining agreements remain valid and enforceable, and that employers must bargain in good faith with certified representatives before changing terms of employment. Finally, it amends existing law to grant PERC concurrent jurisdiction with courts to address violations of certain labor rights and extends a privilege protecting communications between union representatives and employees to those covered by this new chapter.