The bill amends existing laws governing police and fire interest arbitration in New Jersey, specifically targeting the negotiation and arbitration processes between public fire or police departments and their exclusive representatives. It mandates that negotiations must begin at least 120 days before the expiration of collective negotiation agreements, with a minimum of three meetings required. New provisions for mediation and factfinding are introduced, allowing for the appointment of mediators and factfinders to assist in dispute resolution. The bill also establishes a structured arbitration framework, including the selection of arbitrators, cost-sharing, and the binding nature of arbitration awards.

Key changes include the requirement for parties to exchange information prior to arbitration, including expert witness reports, and the authority for arbitrators to set deadlines for this exchange. The bill extends the timeframe for arbitrators to render decisions from 90 to 150 days, with possible extensions, and increases the maximum daily fee for arbitrators from $1,000 to $1,500, as well as raising the total cap on arbitration costs from $10,000 to $15,000. Additionally, it clarifies provisions regarding municipalities in need of stabilization, stating that certain arbitration procedures will cease after six years from the determination of such status, while actions taken prior to the bill's effective date will remain final.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:13A-16