Don’t Miss the Act 111 Interest Arbitration Response Deadline
Municipalities with expiring police or firefighter contracts face strict Act 111 arbitration deadlines. Once a union demands arbitration, the municipality has only five days to respond with its arbitrator and Issues in Dispute. Preparing a strong list can protect management rights and improve efficiency.
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court Clarifies Due Process Rights When a Police Officer is Placed on a “Do Not Call” List
The Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court ruled that police officers placed on “Do Not Call” lists have constitutionally protected due process rights. In Corbo v. Chester County, the court held that prosecutors cannot act as both judge and jury when making these decisions, and municipalities must provide officers with a fair opportunity to contest their inclusion.
Supreme Court Overrules Sixth Circuit Test Required for Members of “Majority Groups” To Claim Discrimination Under Title VII
On June 5, 2025, the Supreme Court of the United States released its decision in Ames v. Ohio Department of Youth Services, which originated out of the Sixth Circuit in Ohio. Plaintiff Marlean Ames (“Ames”) sued her employer, the Ohio Department of Youth Services (the “Department”), claiming she was denied various promotions and related job […]
Summer’s Here! A Guide for Employers Hiring Minors in Pennsylvania
Hiring minors during the summer months can be an excellent way to support the local community, offer meaningful early job experiences to young people, and introduce future professionals to the world of public service.
Executive Orders, Shake-Ups at the EEOC, and a new DOJ Initiative Signal Major Shifts in Enforcement and Compliance with EEO Laws
While it has no doubt been difficult for employers to keep track of all these major changes, certain patterns are emerging that could inform employers what they might expect over the next several years.
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Expected to Issue Two Opinions Considering Potential Changes to the Appellate Review Standards of Public Sector Grievance Arbitration Appeals
In 2025, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is set to consider the appropriate standard for appeals of grievance arbitration awards for public sector employees.
Pennsylvania Supreme Court to Consider Modification of Narrow Certiorari Scope of Review in Act 111 Grievance Arbitration Cases
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has agreed to review the Act 111 narrow certiorari appeal standard in a case where a police officer was returned to work by an arbitrator despite egregious misconduct.
Commonwealth Court Upheld Termination for Officer Who Refused to Perform Casket Duty Due to Mask Mandate
During the pandemic, municipalities were trying to keep their employees safe while dealing with the challenges of staffing and an ever growing to do list. Many municipalities struggled with disciplining employees when health recommendations were changing daily and becoming increasingly politicized.