HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                     HB 1322

Brief Description:  Regulating Washington state patrol employment agreements.

Sponsors:  Representatives Delvin, Scott, Sterk, Morris, Conway and Sullivan

                  Hearing:  February 12, 1997

BACKGROUND:

In 1987, collective bargaining for the Washington State Patrol was placed under the jurisdiction of the Public Employees= Collective Bargaining Act.  Under the act, troopers and their employer bargain over grievance procedures and personnel matters such as hours and working conditions, but may not bargain over wages or wage-related matters.  Wage-related matters are not defined in statute.

The public employment collective bargaining statutes contain a variety of limitations on wage bargaining for state-funded employees, including marine employees and community college faculty, with legislative oversight through the state budget process.

SUMMARY OF BILL:

The Washington State Patrol may negotiate wage-related matters, but not wages, as part of a collective bargaining agreement.  A collective bargaining agreement negotiated before funds are approved to implement the agreement may be conditioned on the Legislature=s subsequent approval of the funds.

RULES AUTHORITY:  The bill does not contain provisions addressing the rule-making powers of an agency.

FISCAL NOTE:  Requested on February 4, 1997.

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.