This bill amends the Public Employe Relations Act of July 23, 1970, to update definitions and enhance the rights of public employees regarding their membership in employee organizations. Notably, the definition of "maintenance of membership" has been revised to remove the requirement that employees must remain members for the duration of a collective bargaining agreement, allowing them to resign at any time. Additionally, the bill clarifies that public employees have the right to refrain from activities related to employee organizations without being bound by a maintenance of membership provision.

The bill introduces new sections that establish specific rights and privileges for public employees, including the right to attend meetings regarding collective bargaining agreements and participate in ratification votes on equal terms with organization members. It prohibits employee organizations from limiting employees' rights to express their views or to associate or disassociate from membership freely. Furthermore, it mandates transparency in membership dues and requires organizations to provide members with documentation related to their membership. Employees whose rights under these provisions are violated may seek civil action for relief, including the recovery of attorney fees. The amendments will apply to collective bargaining agreements entered into or modified after the bill's effective date, which is set for 60 days after enactment.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 208 (Jan 22, 2025): P.L.563, No.195
Printer's No. 0208: P.L.563, No.195