This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section to the Arizona Revised Statutes that specifically addresses arbitration agreements in employment relationships. It establishes that a written agreement to arbitrate employment-related disputes is valid and enforceable for employees whose primary job duties involve handling goods at a warehouse owned or leased by the employer, notwithstanding existing laws that previously excluded such agreements. The bill also clarifies that the agreement is irrevocable unless there are legal grounds for revocation.

Additionally, the bill outlines the financial responsibilities associated with arbitration. It stipulates that if an employee initiates arbitration, they must cover the administrative costs equivalent to the initial filing fee in state court, while the employer will bear all other unique arbitration costs. Importantly, the bill ensures that these arbitration agreements do not impede an employee's right to file claims with government agencies and specifies that the arbitration requirements do not apply to employees under enforceable collective bargaining agreements, except as permitted by those agreements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-1606
Senate Engrossed Version: 23-1606
House Engrossed Version: 23-1606