This bill amends existing laws related to the Public Employees Relations Board and the process for addressing unfair labor practices in Oklahoma. It modifies the powers of the Board, allowing it to set matters for hearing, take evidence, and decide on the issues presented, rather than issuing complaints and scheduling hearings as previously required. Additionally, the bill establishes a new process for selecting arbitrators when an unfair labor practice is alleged, requiring both parties to select arbitrators within specified timeframes and providing a mechanism for selecting a third arbitrator if they cannot agree.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the allocation of fees and expenses associated with arbitration, stating that the costs for the arbitrators selected by each party will be borne by them, while the expenses for the third arbitrator will be shared equally. This provision now explicitly applies to various arbitration contexts, including interest arbitration and the determination of bargaining representatives. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.