Pennsylvania lawmakers recently detailed plans to introduce legislation that would require the transmission of public employee information to Pennsylvania’s public sector unions.
If passed, the bill would establish the Public Employer Disclosure Act (PEDA), which would statutorily require the periodic transmission of public employee information to public sector unions, including public employee contact and work-related information, according to a co-sponsorship memo that Pennsylvania Senator Vincent J. Hughes shared to introduce the legislation.
Employers would be obliged to provide this information to unions for new hires within 21 days of the hire, and at least every 120 days for employees in a bargaining unit. PEDA would also require public employers in Pennsylvania to provide public sector unions with time and space to meet with public employees.
“Unions support the well-being of workers and their interests,” said Hughes, in a statement, noting that Connecticut, New York and Washington have already enacted similar laws that ensure unions can openly communicate and connect with public sector employees. “When we take measures to support unions, we’re ultimately supporting better wages, safer workplace environments and a pro-worker economy.”
A number of Pennsylvania public unions have voiced their support for the legislation. Pennsylvania State Education Association President Aaron Chapin, for example, noted that the organization is “pleased to support” PEDA.
“Union representation is a choice, but it always, always needs to be an informed choice,” said Chapin, in a statement. “Employees absolutely need to know what unions can offer them, and employers need to make sure that their employees can receive information about their options for union membership.”
If PEDA comes to fruition, its significance could go beyond facilitating union access to information, MyChesCo’s Maryann Pugh recently wrote, saying the introduction of the Act “marks a pivotal moment for public sector unions in Pennsylvania.”
The bill “represents a significant step in promoting workers’ rights and enhancing the ability of unions to advocate for their members. By ensuring that public sector employees are well-informed, the legislation aims to create a more balanced and equitable workplace environment,” Pugh wrote, adding that PEDA’s passage could also improve labor relations within the Pennsylvania public sector.
“When unions and employees have open lines of communication, it fosters greater transparency and cooperation. This can result in more effective negotiations and better outcomes for workers, including higher wages, improved benefits and safer working conditions.”
The legislation could have a meaningful economic impact as well, Pugh concluded, noting that stronger unions can contribute to a more robust middle class by negotiating favorable terms for their members.
“This, in turn, supports local economies and stimulates growth. By advocating for the well-being of public sector employees, the legislation aligns with broader efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable economy.”
21 June 2024
Category
HR News Article