Reply #27: (Robert) Bobb will use new powers to alter union contracts

[Bozita]

Source: Michigan Messenger

Bobb will use new powers to alter union contracts
By Ed Brayton | 04.15.11 | 10:40 am


As if to prove correct those who argued that the Emergency Manager bill would be used to alter or eliminate union contracts, Detroit Public Schools Emergency Manager Robert Bobb said Thursday that he will use those new powers to do exactly that.

“I fully intend to use the authority that was granted,” Bobb said, referring to a new law that gives emergency managers the authority to modify — or terminate — collective bargaining agreements. It was the first time Bobb had publicly indicated he intends to use the expanded authority.

His statement came as the district announced Thursday it is sending layoff notices to all 5,466 members of the Detroit Federation of Teachers and non-renewal notices to 248 administrators.

Teachers in Detroit have already made a series of major concessions in order to help the district overcome a massive deficit.

Read more: http://michiganmessenger.com/48258/bobb-will-use-new-powers-to-alter-union-contracts