This bill proposes technical amendments to the Bureau of Mediation Services within Minnesota Statutes, specifically addressing labor relations. It redefines key terms such as "lockout" and "professional strikebreaker" to clarify their meanings in labor disputes. The bill modifies the collective bargaining agreement process, emphasizing the responsibilities of both employers and labor organizations in negotiations and notifications. It also establishes clearer guidelines for the commissioner of mediation services in managing disputes, ensuring that all parties are required to participate in the resolution process. Additionally, the bill introduces new language to specify unlawful acts related to strikes and lockouts, while reinforcing the rights of employees and employers under collective bargaining agreements.

Further amendments include the clarification of supervisory employee definitions, requiring prior written agreement from the exclusive representative and commissioner approval for redesignation. The bill enhances public employees' rights to express grievances without interference and introduces provisions for fair share fees for non-members. It restructures the mediation process, allowing the commissioner to initiate mediation without a petition, and details the requirements for striking, including written notification of intent. The bill also establishes a timeline for strike notifications, clarifies grievance procedures with compulsory binding arbitration, and ensures preferential employment for affected employees in contracting-out situations. Overall, the bill aims to streamline labor relations processes while protecting the rights of public employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 179.01, 179.06, 179.08, 179.11, 179.12, 179.254, 179.256, 179.26, 179.27, 179.35, 179.40, 179.43, 179A.02, 179A.03, 179A.06, 179A.08, 179A.10, 179A.104, 179A.12, 179A.15, 179A.16, 179A.18, 179A.19, 179A.20, 179A.23, 626.892