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Relating to the effect of certain agreements with a collective bargaining organization on certain state-funded public work contracts.
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
HB 985 would prevent an institution awarding a public work contract funded with state money from prohibiting, requiring, discouraging, or encouraging a person bidding on the public work contract, including a contractor or subcontractor, from entering into or adhering to an agreement with a collective bargaining organization relating to the project; or discriminate against a person based on their involvement in the agreement. This would include the person’s status or lack of status as a party to the agreement or willingness or refusal to enter into the agreement.
Texas Action supports HB 985 because it supports the principle of the free market. The bill prevents institutions awarding public work contracts from discriminating against anyone bidding on the contrast based on their involvement or lack of involvement in a collective bargaining agreement. This allows union and non-union bidders to be on equal footing when competing for the contract. Thus, the institution awards the contract to the best bid and whether the local government favors or opposes unions does not factor into the decision. The most efficient solution is chosen by market factors, not personal bias.