The bill amends various sections of the Florida Statutes to refine the processes for the certification, recertification, and decertification of public employee bargaining agents. It mandates that employee organizations or public employees must file a petition with the Public Employees Relations Commission, including a showing of interest from a specified percentage of public employees for ballot placement in certification or recertification elections. This showing of interest is designated as confidential and exempt from public disclosure. Additionally, the bill prohibits the filing of such petitions within 12 months following a commission order that verifies the results of a certification election and requires the commission to dismiss petitions that do not meet the necessary criteria.

Moreover, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifies existing terms related to employee organizations, including provisions that prevent public employers from denying access to resources for these organizations and from providing compensation for certain activities. It also allows public employees to take unpaid time off for organization-related activities while permitting the use of compensated personal leave. The bill repeals a section concerning the revocation of certification and makes conforming amendments to ensure consistency across related statutes. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the collective bargaining process while enhancing the confidentiality and integrity of employee representation efforts, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1328 Filed: 447.307, 447.308, 110.114, 110.205, 112.3187, 121.031, 447.02, 447.305, 1011.60