As previously reported, MACo opposed SB 1123, a bill that would have authorized local jurisdictions to enact binding arbitration through a local law, because it was overly broad and retroactive.  During testimony, the bill’s sponsor and the Fraternal Order of Police’s representatives indicated their willingness to draft amendments to narrow the scope.   Their intent is to protect binding arbitration in those jurisdictions where it has been previously approved by local law.  The bill is moving with the amended language below.

A county or municipal corporation that had adopted a local law or ordinance that allows for binding arbitration to resolve collective bargaining disputes regarding negotiations for wages, benefits, or terms and conditions of employment for employees of the county or municipal corporation is retroactively authorized to adopt a local law or ordinance that allows for binding arbitration to resolve collective bargaining disputes regarding negotiations for wages, benefits, or terms and conditions of employment for employees of the county or municipal corporation.