With a public health state of emergency impacting the entire nation, first responders are among the select group of essential employees working outside of the home. With almost daily changes to working conditions, several labor questions have arisen. Unions have cooperated with local governments in making staffing and other changes during this crisis, while at the same time they work to preserve and protect their members' contractual benefits, which are, of course, needed now more than ever.

Nolan | Perroni is attaching 3 documents helpful to local unions:

ADVICE MEMO. A brief explanation regarding both the validity of your union contract and bargaining rights during a state of emergency, as well as some suggestions for emergency bargaining;

DRAFT AGREEMENT TO EXTEND GRIEVANCE DEADLINES. A draft word document you can edit for your local so that you may cooperate with your employer now, and preserve your union's rights to file contractual grievances later; and

DRAFT COVID-19 LEAVE POLICY. The NEPBA has led the charge on paid leave, filing legislation to protect law enforcement in New England. While many communities are cooperating in not penalizing law enforcement who do require leave, this is not the same everywhere. Places that do not reach agreement on this issue may need to address disputes through the grievance process. In the meantime, locals may be able to reach short term agreements with municipalities to cover their members. Attached is a model policy designed for that purpose.

Cities and towns are grappling with these same issues, and many unknowns exist. We will update as further information becomes available.