Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Florida...
Anti-union legislation is appearing everywhere that Republicans have a legislative advantage.
The response from hard-working citizens has been strong and admirable in these states, and the support from the public in other states is inspirational.
What is missing, however, is a counter-move by Democratic legislators in other states.
I believe we need immediate Democratic legislative initiatives (in solidly Democratic states) to protect Unions in the future.
This is not intended as a rant, but it does seem like Democratic legislators are frequently on the defensive.
As we have seen from recent history, even solidly Democratic states can be saddled with Republican legislatures during trying times. From all appearances, union-busting is going to be a top priority of Republicans for the foreseeable future. If this is the case, then states that currently have strong Democratic Houses and Senates should act now to prevent future Republican over-reaches.
What I am proposing is strong legislative language and mandatory checks and balances to prevent future Republican majorities from eliminating collective bargaining. Proposing and passing such legislation in solidly Democratic states will send a loud message of support to those who are fighting for these basic rights in Wisconsin, Ohio, etc.
For the purpose of collective bargaining for public employees, I believe that legislation of this type could:
- Formally recognize the rights of public employees to collectively bargain.
- Require "good faith" negotiation between the state and public employees.
- Establish a mandatory period of review, public notice and a system of checks and balances on any legislation that would change collective bargaining rights.
- Require that any changes to collective bargaining rights be individually legislated (not folded into other bills).
- Forbid layoffs or termination in relation to Union activities.
- Require a ballot initiative before any fundamental changes to the process may be initiated.
Are there any "best practice" examples of legislation out there that could be used as models for other states?