SB 1115 - This act creates a collective bargaining process for public employees. Under the act, the Commissioner of Administration shall appoint a chief negotiator to represent the state in negotiating and administering all labor contracts entered into by the state. Employees may refuse to join employee organizations. Those who join the organizations and object to the fees are afforded certain protections. Certain individuals are not allowed to join the employee organizations including elected officials, representatives of a public body, confidential employees, students working part-time, temporary employees, judges, employees of a legislative body, and patients and inmates. Bargaining units recognized prior to May 29, 2007, and certain units established before the board promulgates rules shall continue to be recognized and all agreements in place upon the effective date will continue to be binding. The State Board of Mediation is charged with recognizing appropriate bargaining units for certain occupational groups. Guidelines for bargaining are provided and impasses shall be solved through mediation and arbitration. Strikes are prohibited. Individuals may seek an injunction against individuals who strike or engage in other prohibited practices by filing a complaint with the Board of Mediation. This act is similar to HB 601 (2007), SB 641 (2007), and SB 607 (2007). CHRIS HOGERTY