The bill amends existing laws governing police and fire interest arbitration in New Jersey, specifically targeting the negotiation process and arbitration procedures. It mandates that negotiations between public fire or police departments and their exclusive representatives begin at least 120 days before the expiration of their collective negotiation agreements, with a minimum of three meetings required during this period. In the event of an impasse, the bill introduces mediation and factfinding provisions, allowing either party to petition for arbitration after the agreement expires. Additionally, it requires parties to exchange information regarding expert witnesses and financial impacts prior to arbitration, and grants arbitrators the authority to order additional mediation sessions.

Significant changes also include an increase in the daily rate for arbitrators from $1,000 to $1,500 and a raise in the total cap on arbitration costs from $10,000 to $15,000. The timeline for arbitrators to issue awards is extended from 90 to 150 calendar days, with a potential 30-day extension under certain circumstances. The bill emphasizes the financial impact of awards on local taxpayers and requires parties to meet within 10 days of an award's issuance to implement it. Furthermore, it allows for mutual selection of arbitrators, and if no agreement is reached, a random selection by the commission. Certain sections of existing law that limit arbitration awards are repealed, while provisions for municipalities in need of stabilization and recovery remain intact.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:13A-16