The bill amends Section 16-60-7 of the General Laws concerning the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. It introduces new legal language that emphasizes the rights of professional, administrative, and secretarial employees within the department to collectively bargain over all terms and conditions of employment, including salaries, terms of service, and dismissal. This new provision ensures that the commissioner or the department cannot abrogate any agreements reached through collective bargaining.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions regarding the appointment, promotion, and dismissal of employees within the department, stating that these actions are at the discretion of the commissioner, with certain exceptions for assistant commissioners and state-operated schools. The act is designed to enhance employee rights while clarifying the structure and governance of the department, and it will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5227: 16-60-7