US Senate denies vote on collective bargaining

The U.S. Senate has defeated a motion to force a vote on legislation that would mandate collective bargaining of public safety employees.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid finally followed through on his effort to invoke cloture, a procedure that would shut off debate and force a vote on his legislation.  Such a motion needs a super-majority of 60 votes and only received 55.

By all indications, the Senate's action means the effort to federalize the collective bargaining process is dead for this legislative session. 

Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.