Bill > H2416

This bill amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 150E, Section 9A, concerning work stoppages, by changing how the Labor Relations Commission (LRC), a state agency that oversees public employee labor relations, handles strikes. Specifically, if a strike occurs or is imminent, the employer must ask the LRC to investigate if any part of Section (a) of the law has been or will be violated. If the LRC agrees, it will tell the employer to start legal action in the Superior Court, which can appoint a "master" (a neutral person) to help the parties find a solution. The LRC will also hold a quick hearing and call witnesses to figure out why the alleged violation happened. If the LRC determines the strike was caused by an unfair labor practice by the employer, employees will be free from any court-imposed fines or penalties, and the LRC can order continuous bargaining, fining up to $500 any party that refuses to comply with its orders.