Why I Support SB824
I support SB824 because it strengthens fairness in employee grievance procedures and helps prevent coercive practices that can occur under the current system.
Currently, some school divisions negotiate with employees facing discipline by offering to let them resign instead of being terminated, but only if they waive their right to file a grievance. Employees who have done nothing wrong, or who simply want to avoid the stigma of termination, may feel pressured to accept these terms out of fear for their professional reputation and future employment.
This practice undermines due process. A grievance procedure is meant to ensure fairness and accountability, not to be bargained away. SB824 helps correct this imbalance by requiring disputes to be resolved before dismissal or other disciplinary actions (excluding suspensions), ensuring employees are not forced to choose between their reputation and their rights.
Fair procedures protect not only employees but also the integrity of school divisions by promoting transparent, consistent decision-making. No employee should have to surrender their right to due process to protect their career. SB824 is a step toward restoring fairness and trust in personnel practices.
Why I Support SB824 I support SB824 because it strengthens fairness in employee grievance procedures and helps prevent coercive practices that can occur under the current system. Currently, some school divisions negotiate with employees facing discipline by offering to let them resign instead of being terminated, but only if they waive their right to file a grievance. Employees who have done nothing wrong, or who simply want to avoid the stigma of termination, may feel pressured to accept these terms out of fear for their professional reputation and future employment. This practice undermines due process. A grievance procedure is meant to ensure fairness and accountability, not to be bargained away. SB824 helps correct this imbalance by requiring disputes to be resolved before dismissal or other disciplinary actions (excluding suspensions), ensuring employees are not forced to choose between their reputation and their rights. Fair procedures protect not only employees but also the integrity of school divisions by promoting transparent, consistent decision-making. No employee should have to surrender their right to due process to protect their career. SB824 is a step toward restoring fairness and trust in personnel practices.