Opinion ID: 877753
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: issues

Text: The BPA's interpretation of section 39-31-109, MCA, the grandfather clause, is primarily a question of law. Therefore, the reviewing court should determine whether that interpretation involves abuse of discretion. The clause recognizes all bargaining agreements in existence at the time of the passage of the Montana Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act. The BPA asserts that existing bargaining units should also be recognized. The City of Billings has recognized Local # 521 since 1968. The bargaining agreement reflects that in its recognition clause. Therefore, by recognizing the agreement, the City recognizes the Unit. The Unit does not cease to exist when the agreement ends. The Unit continues to exist until a new Unit is formed and recognized. The BPA's interpretation of the grandfather clause is rational, does not involve an abuse of discretion and we reinstate it.