The bill S.264, introduced by Senators Ram Hinsdale and Vyhovsky, aims to grant Assistant Attorneys General the right to organize and engage in collective bargaining. Key amendments to the existing law include the insertion of language that explicitly includes the Office of the Attorney General in the definitions of "collective bargaining" and "state employee," thereby allowing Assistant Attorneys General to be recognized as state employees eligible for collective bargaining. Additionally, the bill establishes that Assistant Attorneys General will be part of one or more statewide bargaining units, as determined by the Vermont Labor Relations Board, and outlines the responsibilities of the Attorney General in managing collective bargaining agreements.

Further provisions in the bill detail the management rights of the Attorney General and the process for mediation and fact-finding in disputes. It mandates that any agreements reached through collective bargaining must be submitted to the Governor and the General Assembly for funding approval, ensuring that the financial implications of these agreements are addressed. The bill also includes a provision for the Attorney General to request funding for increased costs related to collective bargaining agreements, particularly for the initial contract. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-902, 3-905, 3-906, 3-925, 3-982, 3-153