In Saturday morning’s forum, there was one topic of the newly opened Iowa legislative session that brought the most questions—that of what changes are being proposed in current collective bargaining laws. Collective bargaining dictates the state and local government procedures and allowed negotiation methods for workers’ wages, benefits and disciplinary procedures. With Republicans now in the majority, Senator Mark Segebart and House Representative Brian Best said the legislature is bringing the law up for review, saying it is believed the benefits are not in line with that offered in the public sector. Best, of Glidden, said there seems to be some confusion on the collective bargaining agreement and the impact on retirement benefits.
The other request brought before these legislators is to explain exactly what it is about the current collective bargaining agreement that is “not fair.” Segebart said legislators are concerned with a standard solution coming out of the arbitration that accompanies the bargaining process.
Best said the changes proposed to collective bargaining in no way tie the hands of local school districts to offer wage increases to staff.
The frustration of the group in the direction the laws are being taken was voiced by John Brockelsby.
We will bring you more discussion from the first forum in upcoming broadcasts. The next Carroll Chamber of Commerce Legislative Forum will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Glidden American Legion.
