FLRA NEWS


FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY · WASHINGTON, DC · 20424

June 7, 1996 · PR 112-96
Contact: Helenann Hirsch
202-482-6500

FSIP ANNOUNCES NEW EXPEDITED ARBITRATION PROCEDURE

The Federal Service Impasses Panel today announced that it was launching a new expedited impasse resolution service. In selected cases, Panel representatives who have been designated as arbitrators, will now issue awards within 48 hours of the close of the hearing.

The criteria the Panel will consider when selecting cases for the new expedited arbitration procedure include:

  • the nature of the issue(s) presented, including the complexity of the issue(s), the impact on the workplace, and the size of the bargaining unit;
  • the history of the parties' relationship;
  • the length of time the parties spent bargaining on the issue(s);
  • the number of issues in dispute;
  • the parties' preferences on the use of the new procedure;
  • whether a quick resolution of the dispute is a crucial factor in the circumstances of the case;
  • whether the record supports the conclusion that voluntary efforts to reach agreement truly have been exhausted; and
  • the availability of Panel resources at the time the impasse is presented for resolution.

The new procedure is part of a series of initiatives the Panel has recently introduced to strengthen customer service to meet the changing needs of federal agencies and unions. For more information about the new expedited arbitration procedure and other recent Panel actions contact Linda Lafferty at (202) 482-6670.

The Federal Service Impasses Panel, a component within the Federal Labor Relations Authority, is the last step in federal sector collective bargaining -- the substitute for the strike and lockout in the private sector. The Panel is charged with resolving impasses between federal agencies and unions representing federal employees arising from negotiations over conditions of employment.

--end--