The proposed bill mandates that applications for labor organization membership include a notice informing public employees of their rights to either join or refrain from joining a labor organization. Specifically, it requires that the membership applications distributed by labor organizations contain a statement emphasizing that both Arkansas law and the First Amendment protect employees from being compelled to join or financially support a labor organization as a condition of employment. This statement must be prominently displayed on the application form, ensuring that it is easily readable and distinct from other text.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding the withholding of membership dues by municipalities and state agencies. It changes the language from "shall" to "may," giving municipalities and state agencies discretion in withholding dues from employees' salaries upon written request. The bill also introduces new definitions related to labor organizations and public employees, and establishes that any violation of this subchapter constitutes a deceptive and unconscionable trade practice under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

Statutes affected:
SB 577: 14-58-103(b), 19-4-1602(b), 19-4-1602