This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes concerning public employment, specifically addressing the authority of exclusive representatives to charge fair share fees. It removes the ability for exclusive representatives to impose fair share fees on non-member employees by deleting language related to fair share fee challenges and deductions in multiple sections, including 179A.04, 179A.051, 179A.102, 179A.60, and 402A.40. Furthermore, it repeals sections 179A.03, subdivision 9, and 179A.06, subdivision 3, which defined fair share fees and the conditions under which they could be charged. This change significantly alters the financial dynamics of union representation for public employees in Minnesota.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the responsibilities of the commissioner and exclusive representatives regarding contract negotiations and employee representation. It emphasizes that exclusive representatives will no longer have the right to collect fair share fees, which will take effect immediately following the bill's final enactment. The bill also outlines a new process for challenging any fair share fees that may have been previously established, requiring employees to file a written challenge within 30 days of receiving a fee notice, with the burden of proof resting on the exclusive representative. If a challenge occurs, the employer must hold the fee deductions in escrow until the issue is resolved by the commissioner.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 179A.04, 179A.051, 179A.102, 179A.60, 256B.0711, 402A.40