Arkansas House Bill 1024 from Representative Andrew Collins repeals the prohibition on collective bargaining for public employees.

Key Provisions:

1. Amendment to Collective Bargaining Law:

   • The bill removes restrictions that prevent public employees from engaging in collective bargaining with their employers.

2. Repeal of Subchapter 8 of Title 21, Chapter 1:

   • Entirely repeals the subchapter that prohibits collective bargaining for public employees.
   • Removes definitions and prohibitions concerning public employers, unions, and strikes, including:
     • The prohibition against public employers recognizing labor unions or entering into collective bargaining agreements.
     • Penalties for public employees who engage in strikes, walkouts, or obstruction of public operations, which previously included termination and a one-year reemployment ban.
     • Requirements for personnel manuals to specify these prohibitions.

Implications:

• If passed, this bill would enable public employees, including those in schools, government agencies, and higher education institutions, to collectively negotiate wages, benefits, and working conditions with their employers.
• It repeals penalties tied to collective bargaining activities and strikes, which previously applied to public employees.