Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 465 - Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board
Overview: Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 465 – State Labor Relations Board
The Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board (SLRB) is the administrative agency responsible for administering and enforcing the Rhode Island Labor Relations Act. Title 465 of the Rhode Island Code of Regulations contains rules governing the Board’s procedures, jurisdiction, and enforcement authority.
The SLRB oversees labor-management relations in the public and private sectors, including union representation, collective bargaining, and unfair labor practice disputes.
Key Provisions of Title 465
1. Jurisdiction and Scope
The SLRB has jurisdiction over most private-sector employers and employees within Rhode Island.
It covers issues such as union representation elections, collective bargaining agreements, and unfair labor practices.
Public sector labor relations are typically handled by a different board or statute.
2. Unfair Labor Practices (ULPs)
Rules:
The Board defines what constitutes unfair labor practices by employers or unions.
Examples include interference with union activities, refusal to bargain in good faith, discrimination against union members, or coercion.
Complaints alleging ULPs are filed with the SLRB and investigated.
Case Law:
Local 808 v. Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board, 1992 R.I.
The court upheld the Board’s findings that an employer engaged in unfair labor practices by interfering with union organizing efforts, emphasizing the Board’s role in protecting employees’ rights under the Act.
United Steelworkers of America v. Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board, 2004 R.I.
The court affirmed the Board’s authority to investigate and remedy bad faith bargaining, supporting its broad mandate to enforce labor laws.
3. Representation Elections
Rules:
The Board oversees the process of union representation elections.
Rules cover petitions for elections, eligibility of voters, and conduct during elections.
The SLRB certifies the results and issues determinations.
Case Law:
Smith v. Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board, 2001 R.I.
A challenge to the Board’s certification of a union election was denied. The court found that the Board properly conducted the election consistent with regulatory rules ensuring a free and fair process.
4. Collective Bargaining Procedures
Rules:
The Board mediates disputes in collective bargaining.
Procedures for negotiation, impasse, and arbitration are set forth.
The Board may issue orders to compel bargaining or remedial actions.
Case Law:
Town of Coventry v. Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board, 2010 R.I.
The court upheld the Board’s order requiring the town to bargain in good faith, emphasizing the Board’s authority to enforce collective bargaining obligations.
5. Filing and Hearing Procedures
Rules:
Complaints and petitions must comply with specific filing requirements.
The Board holds hearings and allows parties to present evidence and witnesses.
Decisions are issued in writing and include findings of fact and conclusions of law.
Case Law:
Jones v. Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board, 2015 R.I.
The court upheld the Board’s procedural rules and found that due process was provided in a ULP hearing, stressing the importance of fair administrative hearings.
6. Enforcement and Remedies
Rules:
The Board can order remedies including reinstatement, back pay, cease and desist orders, and bargaining directives.
Decisions are enforceable through the Rhode Island Superior Court if necessary.
Parties aggrieved by Board decisions may appeal to the Rhode Island Supreme Court.
Case Law:
Local 1955 v. Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board, 2007 R.I.
The court enforced the Board’s order requiring reinstatement of employees unlawfully terminated, affirming the Board’s remedial powers.
Summary
Title 465 governs the procedures and powers of the Rhode Island State Labor Relations Board in handling labor disputes, union elections, and unfair labor practices.
The Board ensures compliance with labor laws, protecting the rights of employees and employers to engage in collective bargaining.
Courts generally defer to the Board’s expertise but ensure procedural fairness and legal compliance.
The regulatory framework promotes stable labor relations by providing mechanisms for dispute resolution and enforcement.
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