As Congress returns from its Thanksgiving break, it remains to be seen what might actually be accomplished. It is likely however that Democrats will do all they can to move through some issues while they still have control of both the House and Senate.
One of those issues that might see the light of day is mandatory collective bargaining. According to sources, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid intends to seek a vote on his own stand-alone bill, S. 3194, sometime after Thanksgiving.
This means that your voice needs to be heard again by Senators Levin and Stabenow. Tell them that a lame duck session is no time for a vote on any legislation, (S. 3194 or HR 413) that has not been properly heard through the committee process. Let them also know that a vote for these bills or any similar language would force states and municipalities to enter into collective bargaining agreements with their public safety employees, regardless of state and local laws -- an intrusion by the federal government on powers delegated to state and local authorities.
Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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