SB 5752 - DIGEST

     Provides that negotiations between an employer and the bargaining representative in a unit of educational employees shall be commenced at least five months prior to the submission of the budget to the legislative body of the public employer.  If no agreement has been reached sixty days after the commencement of such negotiations then, at any time thereafter, either party may declare that an impasse exists and may submit the dispute to the commission for mediation with or without the concurrence of the other party.

     Provides that, if an agreement has not been reached following a reasonable period of negotiations and mediation, and the executive director of the commission, upon the recommendation of the assigned mediator, finds that the parties remain at impasse, then an interest arbitration panel shall be created to resolve the dispute.

     Declares that the right of educational employees to engage in any strike or stoppage is prohibited.

     Repeals RCW 41.59.120.