Mandatory Collective Bargaining for Public Safety Officers

Congress has for a number of years considered legislation to require collective bargaining for all public safety officers employed by states or their political subdivisions. This legislation is unnecessary and would interfere with state and local options for addressing employee relations. Currently, 34 states have collective bargaining laws that cover police and fire, while an additional four states cover firefighters only. Given that states can and have enacted legislation when appropriate, there is no need for a federal solution.

Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act Resolution
WHEREAS: The International Personnel Management Association has a policy of strong leadership in the review and development of legislation affecting public jurisdictions; and

WHEREAS: The International Personnel Management Association is committed to championing and representing the needs of its members at all levels of government; and

WHEREAS: Congress is considering a proposal that would require collective bargaining for all public safety officers employed by states or their political subdivisions; and

WHEREAS: Legislation in this area could have a negative impact on existing employer-employee relations, and current state and local legislation; now therefore, be it:

RESOLVED: That the International Personnel Management Association expresses its opposition to this proposed law.