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Senate Bill 469 & Teacher Freedom of Choice
posted by: Alix | March 31, 2016, 08:48 PM   

 

Last week, the Kansas Senate passed SB 469, legislation designed to give teachers a voice in determining what bargaining group represents them during contract negotiations. The bill would direct the Kansas Department of Labor to hold elections for teachers to weigh in on their bargaining representative every three years. In these elections, the winning bargaining unit would be the group that won 50% plus 1 of those certified staff voting in the election. This is an important opportunity for teachers as 10 districts in Kansas have already taken an alternative route in changing their recognized bargaining unit since 2009. KANAAE testified in support of the bill earlier this month.


We are aware of educator concerns about teacher rights and collective bargaining. This bill does not deny representation to teachers and district operations will continue unaffected. In reality, SB 469 is pro-teacher legislation that gives school employees an opportunity to vote on their local collective bargaining representation.


This bill is all about teacher choice and transparency. A recent eye-opening survey of KANAAE members regarding union representation illustrates why legislation is needed to ensure that unions operate with the democratic consent of employees. According to KANAAE members:

  • 70% of surveyed members did not vote for a union to represent them.
  • Of the small minority of teachers who have actually voted in a union certification election, just 16% thought the process was "confidential, transparent, and fair."
  • 64% of teachers surveyed would prefer to negotiate their own contract so that they could negotiate a salary and benefits package that best suits their lifestyle.

It's important to note that KANAAE is not a union and does not negotiate contracts. If you are interested in learning more about how a change in bargaining unit may work, please don't hesitate to contact us.

As an organization seeking to elevate the professionalism of teachers, we believe SB 469 is a step in the right direction for teachers in Kansas. We want all educators to make informed decisions about association membership and for all school employees to have a voice in selecting an organization that represents them.

SB 469 is currently in the House of Representatives and must be approved before it is sent on to the Governor to be signed into law. We encourage you to contact KANAAE and your elected officials with your thoughts on this legislation. We are committed to our member-driven philosophy and will share your concerns with legislators and leaders on all levels.


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