In the event the parties are unable to agree within the time stated, the arbitrator shall be selected from a panel submitted by the American Arbitration Association or the California State Mediation Service. The State and IUOE will use expedited arbitration unless agreed otherwise. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding. Arbitration awards for actions which affect classes of employees which involve State funds are to be prospectively enforced from the date of filing of the grievance. 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.
Costs The fees and expenses of the arbitrator and the court reporter, if any, shall be shared equally by the parties. If the department head or designee is the second level of appeal, the grievant may bypass Step 3.