The arbitration hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the Voluntary Labor Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association. The cost of the arbitration shall be borne equally between the parties. The arbitrator shall not have the power to add to, subtract from, or modify this Agreement. In all arbitration cases, the award of the arbitrator shall be final and binding upon the parties. Any claims for failure by the State to maintain the status quo will not be covered by this provision.
Class is defined as all employees similarly situated as to the claims being made.
A copy of the response shall go to the representative indicated on the grievance form at the same time. Respond If the State fails to respond to a grievance within the time limits specified for that step, the grievant shall have the right to appeal to the next step.