Book Description

This pamphlet provides information necessary to analyze existing grievance procedures and sets forth principles to guide the formulation of a more effective grievance process. The introduction defines the grievance procedure in a contractual contest, describes its benefits to management, union members, and private citizens; and briefly reviews key problems. The second chapter discusses the historical and legislative development of grievance arbitration, while chapter 3 discusses the differences in arbitration between the public and private sector. The fourth chapter is a guide to negotiating the language of grievance procedures. The discussion illustrates the significance of the following characteristics: definition, eligible grievant, steps in the grievance procedure, time limits, final step, no reprisal clause, source of arbitrator, limitations on arbitrators' authority, and conditions of arbitration. The fifth chapter discusses potential reforms, specifically expedited grievance arbitration procedures, and grievance mediation. A brief conclusion follows, along with footnotes. (TE)