The members of the VSEA applaud the Vermont Labor Relations Board’s (VLRB) decision on the Unfair Labor Practice Charge filed by the VSEA in response to Governor Scott’s arbitrary decision to require state employees who have successfully worked remotely for years to return to commute.
After 3 days of hearings, and testimony from numerous witnesses, the VLRB issued a fair and thoughtful decision, siding with the arguments of state employees across Vermont. The panel, comprised entirely of Scott appointees, included a neutral representative, a representative of labor and a human resources professional aligned with management and they found against the Governor unanimously.
Governor Scott is not listening to the frontline workers who are telling him that remote work encourages more collaboration and better outcomes for the State. Governor Scott’s attack on this quasi-Judicial and independent body is reminiscent of the attacks on institutions coming from politicians in Washington D.C.
Governor Scott, appointed the members of the VLRB to do exactly what they did, stand up for the rule of law. We find the Governor’s rhetoric to be dangerous and unaligned with the values of the people of the State of Vermont.
Moments ago, the VLRB issued a decision, vindicating the rights of our members to have a say in their conditions of employment.
A STUNNING VICTORY!
Although the State has a right to appeal, we will vigorously seek to enforce this decision.
And while we know you will have questions, our VSEA Legal team is in the process of reviewing the decision and has committed to providing a more detailed analysis soon.
Thank you to all of the members for your commitment to this campaign, for stepping up, sharing your stories and staying engaged.
WHEREAS the Vermont State Employees’ Association (VSEA) exists to represent and defend the interests of working people and to promote the wellbeing of Vermont workers, their families, and the communities they serve; and
WHEREAS VSEA members are committed to the values of integrity, truth, fairness, compassion, and public service that sustain a democratic society; and
WHEREAS, VSEA has affirmed its commitment to science, responsible public policy, and practices that support a safe and sustainable future for Vermonters; and
WHEREAS VSEA members are committed to protecting the needs of Vermonters for clean air, clean water, food, housing, health care, education, and justice for all; and
WHEREAS the strength of the labor movement depends upon the engagement, solidarity, and civic participation of its members and chapters;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Vermont State Employees’ Association encourages chapters and members to meet, discuss, and prepare—within their abilities—to act collectively in defense of workers’ rights and in support of decency, kindness, truth, and mutual care; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that VSEA encourages its members and chapters to engage in civil discourse and freely assemble in furtherance of the principles identified above; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any activities undertaken pursuant to this resolution shall comply with applicable law, including the strike prohibitions contained in the State Employees Labor Relations Act (3 V.S.A.
§ 903(b)) and the Judicial Employees Labor Relations Act (3 V.S.A. § 1012(b)).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees directs the Executive Director to distribute this resolution to the VSEA membership via electronic mail.
VSEA members gathered on State House Day to connect directly with legislators about the issues impacting Vermont’s public workforce. Connecting with legislators is one way to make your voice heard and advance priorities for working Vermonters. #vermont#vtpoli#unionstrong#vermont
