Unions, Governors and Political Maneuvering: A New Paradigm?

“Labor and employment law legislation and enforcement activities have traditionally been politically oriented hot potatoes. Since the election of a Democratic President, we have witnessed a dramatic shift in federal law enforcement to more union and employee favorable positions advocated by the new members of the NLRB, EEOC, OFCCP, DOL, etc. With the election of some Republican Governors with Republican legislative majorities, we are witnessing state legislative initiatives that are favorable to both public and private sector employers. This has caused alarm among unions that have now joined forces, in some cases creating unusual alliances, to combat the various proposals.  It will be very interesting to see the results of the various political maneuvering, publicity, and possible compromises. For example, in Wisconsin, it is not clear whether Governor Walker's intent is to actually limit the collective bargaining rights of public employees, or to use that issue as leverage to negotiate concessions from public employee unions.  Is his goal perhaps to require public employees to pay more for their health care coverage, or accept reduced pension benefits?  Is this politics as usual or is it a new paradigm for the rest of the states to follow?” says Tom Mandler, a partner with Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP in Chicago who represents both private and public sector employers on a nationwide basis in collective bargaining, grievance and arbitration proceedings, and strikes and injunctions. Mr. Mandler is available for interviews. [02/24/2011]