Bill > HB75

This bill, titled the "Employee Preference Act," establishes that individuals have the right to form, join, or refrain from joining labor organizations without fear of penalty, and it prohibits employers from requiring employees to join a labor organization or pay dues or fees to one as a condition of employment, promotion, or continued employment. It also prevents employers from requiring approval from a labor organization for hiring or promotion, and declares agreements violating these principles unlawful. The bill outlines enforcement mechanisms, including investigation by the attorney general and district attorneys, and allows for injunctive relief and recovery of damages for those harmed by violations, with penalties including fines and imprisonment for misdemeanors. Importantly, it amends existing laws related to public employee bargaining to align with these new provisions, particularly regarding the prohibition of mandatory union membership or fees for public employees, and also includes an increase to the state's minimum wage. The bill includes exceptions for certain federally regulated employment and clarifies that if any part of the act is found invalid, the rest will remain in effect.