Labor Relations Program

We are now sending out Labor Bulletins to all members via email. Please send name, title, city and email addresses for those in your municipality who wish to receive Bulletins in this format to Sarah Lingenfelter.

OML Labor Relations Program Information

Funding for the League’s Labor Relations Service program comes, in part, from the 33 cities in the state that each pay a registration fee to make this program possible. This funding allows OML staff to provide particularized attention and information to unionized municipalities. This includes assistance in a member city’s union activities through OML participation via inquiries from municipal officials, labor roundtables, training opportunities and providing specialized labor and employment law information through Labor Bulletins.

Activity impacting the employment/labor arena is multi-faceted. A significant impact on municipal operations has been the Public Employees Relations Board (PERB). Since receiving unfair labor practice (ULP) authority we have seen hundreds of unfair labor practice charges filed. As these complaints are decided, they impact all unionized communities. Although PERB has been sunsetted, ULP activity in the Labor law arena has the potential to continue in a different format.

In addition, we can expect ongoing attempts at legislative activity at both the state and federal level impacting employment/labor relations. We must remain vigilant against one-size-fits-all legislation.

As indicated on the Outline of Services, we do intend to continue the labor program. We invite you to consider participating in these benefits specially geared to unionized municipalities.

As an example of services provided through membership in the Labor Relations Service Program, labor roundtables are scheduled throughout the bargaining season where participants share information on negotiation issues, on-going employment problems and solutions. Finally, throughout the year, Labor Bulletins are published providing information on new state and federal laws, arbitration opinions, and current labor events in Oklahoma communities.

As with almost any service program, our contacts and activity with a given city may run from frequent and direct to infrequent and indirect. We are advised quite often, however, that it is extremely important to all officials involved in collective bargaining that the League’s consulting and information service is available when needed. With the availability of an attorney to concentrate on employee relations, we are in a good position to respond to your needs when required.

LABOR RELATIONS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OUTLINE OF SERVICES

A. PUBLICATIONS

1. LABOR BULLETIN – Issues emailed to chief executive officer and others as requested.

2. SALARY AND BENEFITS SURVEY -- This research report is beneficial to Oklahoma cities and towns when hiring new positions or negotiating contracts.

3. UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE SERVICES

4. STATE AND LOCAL LEGAL CENTER – Federal updates

B. TRAINING PROGRAMS

1. One day topical seminar

2. Preparing for Bargaining -- no charge

C. RESEARCH & CONSULTATION

1. Research available on bargaining agreements, arbitration opinions and unfair labor practice decisions.

2. Consultation on labor law issues and Oklahoma bargaining law requirements.

3. Individual research and/or consultation to assist participants on labor/employment issues.

4. Negotiation Roundtables & Labor Bulletins