Union Busting Bill

Today we saw the release of the first anti-union legislation to be filed for the 2017 legislative session (HB 11 Information) . This union busting bill comes as no surprise as we have seen efforts like this in Florida before – and numerous nationwide attempts to weaken unions. This is politically and ideologically motivated.

If a senate companion is filed and the bills are passed by both chambers, HB 11 by Rep. Scott Plakon (R-Longwood) would require:

• Require each bargaining unit -- when they are required to register annually -- report the bargaining unit size along with the number of dues paying members.
• Require bargaining units with less than 50 percent membership will have to gather cards for a representational election unless the employer agrees to continue the employer-union relationship (Voluntary recognition under s. 447.307 (1)(a), Florida Statutes).
• Exempt employee organizations that represent law enforcement officers, correctional officers and firefighters.

We are reviewing the bill carefully to determine what the potential impact could be to our locals if in fact it were to pass. Florida is a right to work state, where any employee reserves the right to not be a member of a local union and still receive the benefits of the collectively bargained agreement. Our state constitution affords the right for any public employee to join a union to represent their interest in wages and working conditions. Rest assured that FEA will fight any attempt to deny these rights to Florida’s workers.

In Solidarity,

Joanne

Joanne M. McCall, President
Florida Education Association
NEA, AFT, AFL-CIO