[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 118 (Monday, July 23, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1599]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYER-EMPLOYEE COOPERATION ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 17, 2007

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 
980, the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act.
  I am a cosponsor of H.R. 980, which ensures that police officers, 
firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other public safety 
officers have basic collective bargaining rights. Americans depend on 
public safety workers and first responders to keep us safe and healthy. 
These critical personnel should be able to depend on Congress to 
provide them basic rights, including the ability to negotiate for the 
wages and benefits that they deserve.
  This bill promotes the development of labor-management partnerships, 
which are frequently established through collective bargaining. These 
partnerships enhance public safety by increasing communication and 
cooperation between employees and employers, leading to more effective 
and efficient delivery of services.
  It is important to note that the Public Safety Employer-Employee 
Cooperation Act in no way undermines existing State laws. It simply 
establishes a basic minimum standard that most states already meet and 
many exceed. This balanced legislation does not force parties to reach 
agreement, but rather opens the door for dialogue and negotiation. 
Additionally, H.R. 980 recognizes that public safety officers play a 
significant role in emergency situations, and for that reason includes 
a provision Outlawing strikes.
  This bipartisan bill is widely supported by the American public, and 
it is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters, 
Association of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Fraternal Order 
of Police, International Union of Police Associations, and the National 
Association of Police Organizations.
  It is essential for all workers to have a voice at work. Please join 
me in supporting collective bargaining rights for public safety 
officers.

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