Panel Methodology Agency produces approximately 600 grievance and interest arbitration panels per year. Panels prepared by Commission Chairperson. Panels produced by Commission staff using random computer generated lists, but all arbitrators receive equal number of panel inclusions. Panels produced by Commission staff using random computer generated panels with no guarantee of equality. Minimal impact thus far.
Parties continue to litigate in conventional ways with focus on comparability.
Too soon to tell how arbitrators will apply the new criteria. Union seeks to arbitrate grievance. Union proceeds to arbitrate grievance ex parte, obtains a favorable award, and Employer refuses to comply. Union sues under Sec. Commission concludes it is inappropriate to resolve the arbitrability issue now because to do so would encourage the improper sequence of dispute resolution followed by the Union.