AN EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS OF THE SELECTION OF ARBITRATORS IN COMPULSORY INTEREST ARBITRATION PROCEEEDINGS: THE MICHIGAN EXPERIENCE

MARIS STELLA (STAR) SWIFT
BRIAN R. JOHNSON
RICK POSTHUMA

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DOI: 10.2190/76KK-UT1R-HFEU-N4CQ

Abstract

This research provides a review of the compulsory arbitration process in Michigan. It first provides a qualitative description of how arbitrators are selected as members of the arbitration panel maintained and administered by the Michigan Employment Relations Commission (MERC). Using official data from MERC, this study also examined the background characteristics of all arbitrators (n = 54) listed as members of the panel. It found that the members of MERC's arbitration panel are predominately white males who have over 11 years of experience and possess law degrees. Using a multivariate model to explore what background characteristics are predictors of the selection of a neutral arbitrator by the parties in dispute, it was found that age, gender, years of experience, and education were not significant variables affecting the selection of arbitrators.

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