Senate Bill No. 1037 proposes to increase the per diem compensation for members of the State Board of Labor Relations (SBLR) and the State Board of Mediation and Arbitration (SBMA). Specifically, the bill raises the per diem rate for SBLR members from $150 to $300 for each day they perform board duties. Additionally, it modifies the compensation structure for SBMA members, increasing the payment for various services: from $325 to $500 for each member at the conclusion of a proceeding, from $500 to $1,000 for preparing a written decision, and from $325 to $500 for single-member proceedings. The bill also raises the compensation for executive panel sessions from $200 to $300 and stipulates that if proceedings extend beyond one day, members will receive $500 for each additional day, with a maximum of two days without prior approval from the Labor Commissioner.

The changes outlined in the bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and are expected to result in significant fiscal impacts for the General Fund, with estimated costs of $280,500 in FY 26 and $374,000 in FY 27. These costs arise from the increased per diem payments and compensation for the various services rendered by the members of the SBLR and SBMA, based on historical data regarding their engagement in board duties and proceedings. The bill aims to enhance the compensation for these members to better reflect their contributions and responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
LAB Joint Favorable Substitute: 31-98
File No. 166: 31-98