The bill amends various sections of the General Laws in Rhode Island to establish a "union neutrality clause" for regional vocational schools, charter public schools, and mayoral academies. This clause requires these educational institutions to remain neutral regarding the unionization of their employees, prohibiting any actions that could be interpreted as supporting or opposing union representation. Specifically, the administration of these schools is mandated not to express a position on unionization, and they are prohibited from threatening, intimidating, discriminating against, retaliating against, or taking any adverse action against employees based on their decisions regarding union representation. Additionally, the schools cannot hire subcontractors to discuss unionization with their employees.

The bill also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any provision of the legislation is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. It outlines the governance structure for regional vocational schools, including the establishment of a board of trustees and the responsibilities of school directors.

Furthermore, the bill sets forth procedures for the creation of district charter schools, requiring the inclusion of a "union neutrality clause" in their charters upon renewal or application for a new charter. It mandates that independent charter schools and mayoral academies also adhere to similar standards regarding union neutrality. The legislation emphasizes the need for these schools to provide bona fide labor organizations access to employees for discussions about their rights and employment conditions, and it stipulates that union recognition shall occur through a majority card check verified by a neutral third-party arbitrator.

Overall, the bill aims to enhance the governance and operational frameworks of these educational institutions while safeguarding employees' rights concerning unionization.

Statutes affected:
912: 16-77.2-2, 16-77.3-2
912  SUB A: 16-45-6, 16-77.2-2, 16-77.3-2, 16-77.4-2, 16-114-4
912  SUB A as amended: 16-45-6, 16-77.2-2, 16-77.3-2, 16-77.4-2, 16-114-4