Mastering Union Relations

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Which role do most unions in small to large agencies play?

Representing members at the bargaining table and the misconduct investigative process (correct)

Acting as fiduciaries to their membership

Providing legislative parameters and structure

Social entities to benefit widows and orphans

Which legislation defines the bargaining process in California?

Government Code Section 3500

Police union code

Right-to-work state law

Meyers-Milias-Brown Act (correct)

What is the purpose of the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act?

To define the bargaining process in right-to-work states

To promote full communication between public employers and their employees (correct)

To establish fiduciary duties for unions

To provide benefits to widows and orphans

What is the purpose of this chapter?

To promote the improvement of personnel management and employer-employee relations Signup and view all the answers

What was the result of unions' increased power, according to the text?

Management's sophistication did not increase proportionately Signup and view all the answers

What legislation was enacted in response to perceived abuses by management in large agencies?

California's Assembly Bill 301 Signup and view all the answers

Why are police management teams at a disadvantage compared to rank and file unions?

Rank and file unions have political action committees that can impact elections Signup and view all the answers

Why did the lieutenant begin to change his view after being promoted?

He witnessed the union supporting a bad cop. Signup and view all the answers

What did the lieutenant demand to improve discipline and management rights?

Better internal investigations Signup and view all the answers

Why did the lieutenant sometimes have conflicts with the union?

The department's interests diverged from the union's. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of unions in public safety agencies according to the text?

To ensure management's stewardship of the public's trust and money. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for unions when dealing with toxic employees?

Train managers and supervisors in applicable laws Signup and view all the answers

Which law is mentioned in the text as being relevant to misconduct investigations in California?

Government Code sections 3300-3313 Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach for unions to resolve issues with management?

Hold periodic roundtables with management Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended role for a staff officer in union-agency relations?

Serve as a liaison with union leadership Signup and view all the answers

Why does the author feel uncomfortable with management being beholden to politicians?

It erodes employee and public confidence in management Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest about the influence of unions on management prerogatives?

Unions protect employees who commit misconduct Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason the author gives for divisions in police unions?

Unions' duty to represent individual members Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about flawed disciplinary policies and due process systems?

They contribute to the erosion of employee and public confidence Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key responsibilities of police managers?

Adhering to laws and regulations Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest about police unions?

They should be more critical of their members' conduct Signup and view all the answers

According to The Atlantic Monthly article mentioned in the text, what is a concern with the disciplinary process for cops?

Arbitration agreements protect bad cops Signup and view all the answers

What impact does the reinstatement of bad cops have on other employees?

It diminishes trust in the system and discourages rule compliance Signup and view all the answers

What is Sheriff Sandra Hutchens' perspective on working with police unions?

She believes that police unions and the organization can find common ground and achieve agreements. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest about bridging gaps between police management and unions?

Bridging gaps can often be achieved by acting honestly and fairly. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for police management to rid the organization of toxic employees?

To protect the community and maintain trust in the department. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three core principles for accomplishing the objective of ridding the organization of toxic employees?

Leadership, Competence, and Integrity Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's perspective on the power of unions?

The author believes that unions and management should work together. Signup and view all the answers

What is a core management duty?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest about unions' responsibilities?

Unions should not contribute to feelings of errant officers not being held accountable. Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's suggestion for improving the relationship between labor and management?

Both sides should strive to play their roles honestly and with the best interests of the department, the union, and the community at heart. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key moves Sheriff Hutchens made after taking over the Orange County Sheriff's office?

Establishing trust and open communication with the union Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the principles that should be followed during contract negotiations?

Being as honest as practical during the process Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to establish trust and do what you say you'll do in labor relations?

To maintain a good working relationship with the union Signup and view all the answers

Why do unions often have conflicts or issues with management?

To justify their existence Signup and view all the answers