THE IMPACT OF PROPOSITION 13 ON PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RELATIONS: THE CASE OF LOS ANGELES

GENE SWIMMER

---

DOI: 10.2190/D84R-JFTE-XWHX-QJE3

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of Proposition 13 and subsequent state bailout legislation on public employee relations in the City and County of Los Angeles. Direct employment effects are minimal as both jurisdictions have been reducing their work force since 1975. Effects on the collective bargaining process are more apparent. Management attitudes have hardened in response to a perceived reduction in the political costs of strikes. Union members have responded with greater militancy. The 1979 negotiations, where a county-wide strike was narrowly averted, illustrates the new bargaining environment. Harmonious employee relations in the future are unlikely, given management's desire to contract out work and the dwindling state budget surplus.

---

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.