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OCSEA looks for Civil Service reform bill to surface again soon; Buehrer seeks co-sponsor

Feb. 20, 2003 - Rep. Stephen Buehrer (R-Delta) is currently seeking co-sponsor for a reintroduction of the Civil Service Review Commission bill in the House, OCSEA Government Affairs Director Kim Fellinger reported today. "I would anticipate that we have a new bill to rally against in the next few days," Fellinger said.

In late November 2002, Buehrer introduced a far-reaching civil service reform legislation (HB 673) that would, among other things, allow state agencies to create their own evaluation systems to assess employee performance and furlough employees when fiscal problems dictate a workforce reduction.

Although HB 673 went no where before the end of session, the attacks on the civil service law are growing ever more aggressive. State negotiators' attempts to furlough employees during bargaining is just more evidence that fair and sensible civil service protections are in serious jeopardy.

OCSEA, however, cautions members to not be desensitized. Union members should keep their guard up and be ready to take action when called on.

The union may ask members to speak out at public forums, write letters to media outlets, and meet with state and local officials. Start now by learning more about Rep. Bueher on the Ohio House of Representatives web site.