Sen. Tim Kapucian: Chapter 20 - Myths vs. facts

Committee work moves on as we have meetings and subcommittee meetings.

The big issue of the week has been Chapter 20, that deals with public sector union employees.

There have been many rumors and myths discussed and I hope to state some of the facts to keep you better informed. Following is a breakdown of some of the most talked about concerns from your email messages the past few weeks. I hope this helps to calm the fears and confusion circling the collective bargaining reform.

* Myth: The Republicans are using this bill to bust public sector unions in Iowa.

Fact: If the goal is to bust unions, this bill would delete chapter 20 entirely.

* Myth: Teachers will make less money, will be less safe and enjoy fewer benefits.

Fact: This bill will give school districts the opportunity to give good teachers more money, not less. By taking supplemental pay out of union negotiations, school districts can develop plans to provide more compensation to specialized and/or high performing teachers in their district.

State and local governments invest in their workers and don’t want to lose them. This bill would create a marketplace for teachers in Iowa and create incentives for districts to offer competitive wage and benefit packages to keep their best teachers.

* Myth: Teachers will have no protection from inaccurate or misleading accusations made against them students, parents or administrators.

Fact: Teachers will still be provided due process to have their concern heard by their superintendent and local school board. Teachers can still be represented by attorneys or employee organizations, even if they are in a nonunion workplace. There are also options for nonunion teachers to obtain professional insurance to protect them in these circumstances.

* Myth: By weakening collective bargaining, public employers will struggle to maintain stable workforces.

Fact: The state, cities, counties and schools have an incentive to provide stable productive workplaces for the good of constituents, students and anyone else who interacts with government in Iowa. Therefore, administrators understand the need to pay competitive salaries, offer reasonable benefits and provide a safe work environment.

See you out and about the district.