Bill H.173 proposes to grant employees at public institutions of higher education in Vermont, specifically the Vermont State Colleges and the University of Vermont, the right to strike. The bill amends current law by modifying the language regarding state employees' rights and duties, specifically stating that while state employees are generally prohibited from striking or recognizing picket lines during their official duties, this prohibition will not apply to employees of the aforementioned educational institutions.

Additionally, the bill amends the definition of unfair labor practices to clarify that it is not considered an unfair labor practice for employee organizations to encourage individuals employed by the Vermont State Colleges or the University of Vermont to engage in strikes. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-903, 3-962