The bill, introduced by Representative Crews, amends existing laws regarding labor organization dues for teachers, school employees, and public employees in Louisiana. It mandates that state, parish, city, local school boards, and other governmental agencies must notify employees of their right to cease payment of labor organization dues. This notification must be provided in writing or via email at least annually, informing employees that they can withdraw from the organization. Additionally, all authorizations for dues deductions must be submitted on a prescribed form that includes a statement about the employee's First Amendment rights regarding union membership and dues payment. Employers are required to confirm any authorization for deductions via email before proceeding with the deductions.

Furthermore, the bill allows employees to immediately cease the withholding of dues from their wages upon submitting a written or electronic request. Employers must notify the relevant labor organization of the employee's decision and must stop any further deductions, ensuring that the employee does not accrue additional debt to the union. The provisions of the bill will apply to new collective bargaining agreements or modifications made after August 1, 2024. Notably, the bill exempts law enforcement and firefighters from these provisions.

Statutes affected:
HB980 Original:
HB980 Engrossed: