SB 6500 - DIGEST

Declares that the intent and purpose of this act are to recognize that there exists a public policy in the state of Washington against strikes by teachers and other certificated instructional staff as a means of settling their labor disputes; that the uninterrupted and dedicated service of these educational employees is vital to the welfare and education of the children of the state of Washington; that to promote such dedicated and uninterrupted public service there should exist an effective and adequate alternative means of settling disputes.

Provides that, if an agreement has not been reached on a new employment contract following a reasonable period of negotiations and mediation, but in no event later than July 15th of any year in which the previous employment contract will expire, an interest arbitration panel shall be created to resolve the dispute.