49th Annual Training ConferenceApril 26-30, 2020 | Austin, TX

SADDLE UP IN AUSTIN Y’ALL; LABOR RELATIONS IS EVER CHANGING AND THAT’S NO BULL

www.NPELRA.org

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the National Public Employer Labor Relations Association (National PELRA), I am pleased to invite you to join us for our 2020 Annual Training Conference (ATC), in Austin, TX from April 26 – 30, 2020.

National PELRA is the premier organization for public-sector labor relations and human resources professionals, and our Annual Training Conference has been nationally recognized as one of the best government conferences for learning and networking. Our conference program features a variety of timely and relevant session topics for the novice to the more advanced professional. This year there are more than 36 educational sessions and workshops specifically designed to provide an in-depth look at the topics and issues of greatest importance to today’s public sector labor relations and human resources professionals. There are also opportunities to extend your learning with pre and post conference workshops, two academies and the administration of the Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP) Exam.

Following Keynote Speaker Ted Garnett who will present on “Creating a World Class Culture,” this year’s agenda offers a myriad of sessions on topics such as:

Our 2020 Conference offers an extraordinary educational experience along with the opportunity to network with colleagues from around the country. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to become better equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to positively impact you as a professional in the field and in your organization.

Planning a conference of this magnitude is a huge undertaking, so I would like to take the time to personally thank the 2020 ATC Planning Committee Chair Brent Long (WA) and Co-Chair, Brooke Carnevale (OH), and their amazing committee; Charlotte Barnes (DE), Emily Taub (IL), Karen Jackson (WA), Kristen Treadway (OH), Laura Davis (MN), Stephanie Romagnoli (IA), John Mancini (NY) and Sean Robinson, National PELRA Executive Director. I also want to extend a big thank you to the National PELRA Team for all their hard work in support of the Committee. Of course, thank you to our sponsors whose generous monetary contributions assist in making the conference such a great event.

If you are not already a member of National PELRA, we welcome you to consider membership with our national organization. Join over 2,400 professionals from nearly every state in the country and take advantage of not only the Annual Training Conference but also cost effective webinars, Labor Relations Academies, informative newsletters, and much more. Our website: www.npelra.org, describes all the benefits and services National PELRA has to offer. We encourage you to take a moment and check us out.

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Saddle up in Austin, Y’all; Labor Relations is Ever Changing and That’s No Bull,” please plan on “saddling up” and joining us in Austin. We are looking forward to seeing y’all in April!

Lisa Baisley National PELRA President

Welcome!

• Workplace Civility• Legislative Updates• Public Employees and Free Speech• Worksite Wellness• Investigations• Workplace Violence• Pay Equity• Workplace Impact of #MeToo• Collective Bargaining Trends

• Performance Management• Diversity & Inclusion• Transgender Issues in the Workplace• ADA/ADAAA Issues• Anti-Harassment Training• Challenges of a Multi-generational

Workplace• FLSA Update• And Much More!

Sunday - April 26, 2020 7:00am - 4:00pm Exhibitor Set-Up 8:00am - 3:00pm National PELRA Golf Tournament 8:00am - 4:00pm Academy III: The Negotiation Process 12:00pm - 3:00pm Conference Check-In/Registration 1:00pm - 4:00pm Pre-Conference Workshop 4:30pm - 5:30pm First Timers’ Reception 5:30pm - 7:00pm Welcome Reception

Monday - April 27, 2020 7:00am - 3:30pm Registration 7:00am - 4:00pm Exhibit Area 7:30am - 8:30am Continental Breakfast 8:30am - 9:00am President’s Welcome 9:00am - 10:15am Keynote Speaker 10:15am - 10:35am Morning Refreshments 10:35am - 11:50am Concurrent Sessions 12:00 pm - 1:15 pm Robin Hall Annual Awards Luncheon 1:30pm - 2:45pm Concurrent Sessions 2:45pm - 3:05pm Afternoon Refreshments 3:05pm - 4:20pm Plenary Session 2 4:30pm - 5:30pm Reception for Sponsors 5:30pm - 7:30pm Networking Reception

Tuesday - April 28, 2020 6:00am - 6:45am Yoga 7:00am - 8:00am Continental Breakfast 7:00am - 3:30pm Registration 7:00am - 4:00pm Exhibit Area 8:00am - 9:15am Plenary Session 3 9:15am - 9:35am Morning Refreshments 9:35am - 11:50am Workshops 12:00pm - 1:00pm State Presidents Lunch Meeting 12:00pm - 1:00pm NeoGov Lunch 1:15pm - 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions 2:30pm - 2:50pm Break - Sponsors’ Drawing 2:50pm - 4:05pm Plenary Session 4 4:15pm - 5:15pm Concurrent Session 6:00pm - 9:30pm Tuesday Night Networking Event

Wednesday - April 29, 2020 6:00am - 6:45am Walk / Run 7:30am - 8:30am Continental Breakfast 7:30am - 12:00pm Registration 8:30am - 8:55am National PELRA Business Meeting 9:00am - 10:15am Plenary Session 5 10:15am - 10:30am Morning Refreshments 10:30am - 11:45am Concurrent Sessions 12:00pm - 1:00pm National PELRA Foundation Lunch 1:15pm - 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions 2:30pm - 2:45pm Afternoon Refreshments 2:45pm - 4:00pm Plenary Session 6

Thursday - April 30, 2020 8:00am - 4:00pm Investigations Academy 9:00am - 11:00am CLRP Exam

Schedule O

verview

3

Create an EFPA™ Job Bank Now.

We do EFPAs Right.

Capture the physical, mental & emotional demands of a job with an Essential Functions Position Analysis document

Come to an Upcoming ADA TrainingFor more information go to ShawHRconsulting.com/training

Contact Us For More Information

ShawHRConsulting.cominfo@shawhrconsulting.com805.498.9400

The Shaw HR Consulting EFPA (Essential Functions Position Analysis™) is a superior document that analyzes and defines the physical, mental and emotional demands of a position. Use it to evaluate medical work restrictions in Workers’ Compensation claims and throughout the Disability Interactive Process.

EFPAs are critical in determining where reasonable accommodation discussions need to begin. This includes discussions and clarification with physicians and employers. They become a lasting resource you will use again and again.

4

Sessions & Events8:00am - 3:00pm National PELRA’s Annual Golf Tournament Come join in a round of golf at the Avery Ranch Golf Club in Austin and network with friends,

colleagues, and conference sponsors. Avery Ranch Golf Club features the best golf in Central Texas and a real Hill Country golf experience. Former Jack Nicklaus Architect, Andy Raugust, has blended panoramic vistas and gentle rolling hills with oak-lined fairways and a 60-acre lake. The 18-hole championship course offers 5 tee placements that will challenge the low-handicapper while creating an enjoyable golfing experience for all levels of players. National PELRA members compete for the infamous National PELRA Cup while others compete for various prizes. Registration includes: transportation via bus from the hotel to the course, breakfast, green and cart fees, tournament prizes, and lunch. (Separate Registration Required, $100)

8:00am - 4:00pm Academy III: The Negotiation Process Academy III focuses on the ‘Negotiations Process’ in a simulation involving economic,

reclassification and benefit issues that gives participants an opportunity to sharpen their negotiating skills. Topics include: Obtaining Parameters; Preparation for Bargaining, Structuring and Costing a Multi-year Settlement, Timing and Order of Settlements, Making the Final Offer, and How to Use a Mediator in a Union-Management Dispute. Each attendee is assigned to a union or management team and given confidential instructions for strategic planning. Coaches and “mediators” are provided, and additional instructions keep the exercise lively. An interactive workshop on thorny problems such as the timing of settlements, impasse strategies and multi-year contracts precedes the simulation and debriefing. A discussion on Perspectives of the Negotiations Process rounds out the day with perspectives from a management panel.

12:00pm - 3:00pm Conference Check-In If you arrive early, beat the Monday morning rush and stop by the Registration Desk to pick up your

program materials and your badge to enter the Sunday night Welcome Reception. Are you arriving later than 3:00pm? You can pick up your registration materials at the First Timers’ Reception or the Welcome Reception.

1:00pm - 4:00pm Pre-Conference Workshop ADA/ADAAA Compliance – Everything You Need to Do This Hard Stuff Right!

Rachel Shaw, Shaw HR Consulting / CA (Gold Sponsor) Rachel Shaw is back by popular demand, and you won’t want to find out Monday that you

missed the best training on the ADA your colleagues have ever attended! You will leave feeling empowered, entertained and with tangible tools to enhance your organization’s good work.

Rachel is the expert on ADA Compliance and delivers a training like no other. Her high-energy, solutions focused trainings are sought after by companies across the country because she brings real-life solutions that actually work! Rachel makes this topic entertaining and interesting, while not losing sight that the goal is to provide employers with tools and resources to enhance and improve their individual disability programs. During this pre-session, Rachel will expertly guide you through her trademarked disability interactive process protocol, “The Hallway.” This step-by-step protocol to ADA compliance will then be used as a foundation to tackle some of the most complex disability matters facing public sector employers today, including psychological disabilities, claims of “my disability made me do it,” workers’ compensation frequent flyers, and more.

4:30pm - 5:30pm First Timers Reception First-time conference attendees are encouraged to come to this popular welcome reception

hosted by the National PELRA Board of Directors, State PELRA Presidents, and Past National PELRA Presidents. This event gets the conference off to a great start and is an excellent opportunity to mix and mingle with fellow first time ATC attendees, as well as meet with key members of National PELRA who you’ll enjoy spending time with throughout the remainder of the conference. Come and make a new friend (or several)! (Badge Required for Entry)

5:30pm - 7:00pm National PELRA Welcome Reception You come to the National PELRA ATC for education, information, and inspiration, but you leave

with a bunch of awesome new contacts too! We build in many opportunities for you to network with your colleagues and fellow National PELRA members. Of course, if you’ve attended our ATC before (as many of our attendees have), you’ll be looking to catch up with old friends, as well as make some new ones. Join us for food and celebration to officially kick off the 2020 ATC in style. (Badge Required)

Sunday

5

Mon

day

7:00am - 3:30pm Registration

7:00am - 4:00pm Exhibit Area

7:30am - 8:30am Continental Breakfast Come and enjoy a continental breakfast with your colleagues and

friends before the opening session. (Badge Required)

8:30am - 9:00am President’s Welcome Lisa Baisley, National PELRA President

Town Personnel Officer Town of Huntington, NY

9:00am - 10:15am Plenary Session P1: Creating A World Class Culture

Ted Garnett, Managing Partner, Performance Resources Consulting, LLC (PRC) / IA

This interactive and fast paced Keynote will challenge you to improve your own performance and provide you with a focus to impact the performance of the entire team. Participants will learn about how a premium brand promise of customer satisfaction in the public sector can be focused and executed along with the benefits to every customer within the organization…and every potential customer outside of the organization.

This illuminating presentation has received consistent high ratings from government leaders who have successfully applied the tools and concepts on the path to creating a world class culture, and Ted will share specific case study examples that you can use in your organization.  What is the financial case for culture?  What can a world class culture do for your talent retention/attraction? What’s mandatory for the world class culture game plan?

Don’t miss this opportunity to get all those answers and more so that you can become world class for your team,  for yourself, your family, and the community you serve!  #CultureByDesign!

10:35am – 11:50am Concurrent Sessions C1: Recognizing and Drafting Good Contract

Language Rodney B. Younker, Summit Law Group, PLLC / WA (Bronze Sponsor)

Above all, collective bargaining agreements are contracts and they should be written with the clarity and thoughtfulness that goes into drafting any legally significant documents. This session will explain the importance of clear contract language, provide strategies for getting good language approved at the bargaining table, and provide real-world examples of language covering common contract provisions such as union security (in light of the Janus decision), wages, hours, leave and management rights.

6

Monday

C2: Anatomy of a Police Misconduct Evaluation: What Happened and What Did We Learn? Douglas E. Duckett, Duckett Law Firm, LLC / OH (Bronze Sponsor), Tom Sanders, Director of Human Resources, City of Hutchinson / KS Jeffrey C. Hooper, Police Chief, City of Hutchinson / KS

In the summer of 2018, the City of Hutchinson, Kansas faced serious allegations that an off-duty police officer had driven her baby for some 40 minutes showing clear signs of serious impairment, but the two city police officers who stopped her turned off their body cameras, never performed a field sobriety test or any confirmatory testing, and together with a supervising sergeant and the Deputy Chief decided that rather than DUI, the likely issue was post-partum depression. Much of the department was up in arms with what looked like the cover-up of police officer misconduct, and an extensive investigation followed, resulting in all four being fired.

What can this story teach us about how to investigate allegations of off-duty misconduct or criminal offenses—and indications of an on-duty rush to exculpate that looks more and more like a cover-up? Douglas Duckett, the attorney-investigator will be joined by the City’s Director of Human Resources, Tom Sanders and the new Police Chief, Jeff Hooper.

C3: Taking a Knee to Free Speech: Understanding When Public Employers May Limit Free Speech Gregory A. Hearing, Gray|Robinson, P.A. / FL

The current political and social climate of the United States has created an environment where many employees feel the need to bring their opinions, thoughts, and feelings to the workplace.  Where is the current redline on protected v. non-protected speech and how can public employers regulate speech without running afoul of the law?  This presentation explores the limitations employers may place on employee speech both at and away from the workplace.

C4: Leveraging a Worksite Wellness Center for Employees Mary Miller, Lane County / OR, Inga Wood, ORPELRA President, Lane County / OR & Michelle Rosowsky, Marathon-Health / OR (Silver Sponsor)

Hear how Lane County implemented an employer-sponsored wellness center in 2015 for employees. Employees and their eligible dependents may access the center for healthcare services that include sick care, physicals and exams, assessments, counseling, health coaching, and mindfulness training. The health center benefit was one aspect of a strategic move to a self-funded health plan and programs for enhancing the health and productivity of employees. In this session you will learn about the steps they took to engage the represented employees and the financial and health outcomes achieved.

C5: Pay Equity: How to Uncover Pay Disparities and Remedy Them J. Patrick Bracken, Segal Consulting / Washington D.C. (Silver Sponsor)

Pay equity is a hot topic for legislators, employers and employees alike. This session will give attendees the tools to take a proactive approach to addressing pay equity in their organizations. You will learn about tools for analyzing pay inequities, how to avoid common mistakes when conducting an analysis, and review different approaches to pay equity solutions.

12:00pm -1:15pm Robin Hall Annual Awards Luncheon Join your colleagues as we celebrate and congratulate the National PELRA 2019

Award Winners at the Robin Hall Memorial Annual Awards Luncheon. Lunch is open to all National PELRA registered attendees, speakers and sponsors. (Badge Required)

7

1:30pm – 2:45pm Concurrent Sessions C6: The Brady Bunch or a Just a Giglio?  Effectively Dealing with Law

Enforcement Personnel and the Implications of Brady and Giglio Todd A. Lyon, Fisher & Phillips LLP / OR (Bronze Sponsor) & Kyle Gulya, von Briesen & Roper, s.c. / WI

When the credibility of a law enforcement employee is compromised and the branding as a Brady cop arises, what can the employer do to address this compromising situation?  This presentation will help participants develop an understanding of the Brady principle, the impact on the criminal justice process, the Department and the officer, and practices the employer can use including proactive steps during the hiring process, policy development, communicating with prosecutors, position description language, and investigations to best position the employer when making difficult employment decisions involving the Brady-tainted officer.

C7: It’s Time to Swipe Left on Your Current Performance Management Process Regina Romeo, CPS HR Consulting / CA (Silver Sponsor)

Traditional performance management has historically been thought of as having only two components: (1) the dreaded annual headache that consists of the antiquated “check a box” form or “copy and paste from last year” evaluation process or (2) discipline. Managers often avoid dealing with employees that are not performing well until problems reach a tipping point while simultaneously taking higher performers for granted. It is 2020 and it’s time we go “beyond the box” and challenge the rule of spending 80% of our time dealing with 20% of our employees. What would a new performance management process look like if we used the performance evaluation as a development tool? In this session, participants will learn a new model where every day is an opportunity to engage with their team to set goals and identify development opportunities in a prospective manner instead of retrospectively. We will discuss reasons why we often avoid addressing performance issues and examine how our leadership style contributes to the success of our team.

C8: Sexual Orientation, Transgender, and Legal Issues in the Workplace Jennifer E. Edwards, Baker & Hostetler LLP / OH (Bronze Sponsor)

Diversity contributes to a productive, creative, and successful workplace.  This session analyzes sexual orientation and transgender protections and developments at the federal and state level, and how these developments may impact the workplaces.  The session also provides an overview of practical guidance as employers craft and implement policies.

C9: State and Local Government Recruiting in the Age of Social Media Corey Hurwitz & Michael Hurwitz, Careers In Government / CA (Bronze Sponsor)

Today everybody tweets, likes, shares, and of course is searching for new careers! Chances are a future employee is on their Twitter or Facebook feed right now, and looking for a career, but will never think to visit your employment page. Government employers must now promote their vacancies on social media, as well as market their “employer brand” to a new generation of millennial job seekers. Going about this task is not a simple feat. You must not only have the insights of an advertising maven, but juggle the day-to-day responses required in the world of social media. As the leading Job Board and Career Center in state and local government, Careers In Government now reaches more than 15-million users per month on its vast social media channels and utilizes the latest strategies and tools in the marketplace.

C10: The (Juris) Doctor Is In! John F. Corcoran, Hancock Estabrook, LLP / NY & Whitney M. Kummerow, Hancock Estabrook, LLP / NY

Join John and Whitney (partners at Hancock Estabrook, LLP), in a lively discussion over the myriad of ways employers can be tripped up by employee medical issues.  Our panelists will present several hypothetical situations employers are likely to confront and suggest best practices for dealing with topics ranging from employee gender transitions, to medical marijuana use, to requests for additional medical leave beyond accruals.  This session will cover concerns raised by the Family and Medical Leave Act, anti-discrimination statutes, and other laws employers navigate when handling employee medical matters.

Mon

day

8

Monday

3:05pm – 4:20pm Plenary Session P2: When Disability and Discipline Collide

Rachel Shaw, Shaw HR Consulting / CA (Gold Sponsor) Things get tricky when performance may or may not be impacted by a

perceived or actual disability. Most employers are, unfortunately, familiar with employee cases where questions of disability arise toward the end of a disciplinary process. Where to start? Legal issues surrounding both discipline and disability abound, it is important to understand how the two can be intertwined legally. This training will help you navigate these issues and assist you to getting to the same goal of both the Disability Interactive Process and Progressive Discipline – for an employee’s performance standards to be met. Learn how to manage these especially tough cases in compliance with the ADA and about specific solutions on how to proceed down the Disability Interactive Process Hallway™.

4:30pm - 5:30pm Reception for Sponsors (Special Invitation)

5:30pm - 7:30pm National PELRA Networking Reception

Join us Monday evening at the beautiful Bullock Texas State History Museum. Just steps away from the ATC Hotel, conference attendees get the opportunity to take in some history about the State of Texas. Join us for hors d’oeuvres while connecting with colleagues and sponsors from across the nation at the National PELRA Networking Reception. All registered attendees, including speakers and sponsors are welcome.

9

6:00am - 6:45am Yoga Start your day off with an invigorating yoga session. Through movement and meditation, yoga will

help you become relaxed, balanced, and bring you a sense of well-being that lasts long after the class. Learn how yoga combines postures (asanas), breathing (pranayama), meditation, and a final relaxation (savasana), to leave you feeling energized for the rest of the day. All are welcome, regardless of experience.

7:30am - 8:30am Continental Breakfast Come and enjoy a continental breakfast with your colleagues and friends before the opening session.

(Badge Required for Entry)

7:00am - 3:30pm Registration

7:00am - 4:00pm Exhibit Area

8:00am – 9:15am Plenary Session P3: Collective Bargaining Trends and Developments: A National Perspective

Robert J. Smith, Jr., Clark Baird Smith LLP / IL (Diamond Sponsor) Robert J. Smith, Jr, a partner with Clark Baird Smith LLP, will discuss public sector collective bargaining

and interest arbitration trends across the nation. Robert will comment on the significance of the United States Supreme Court’s decision invalidating agency fee arrangements, as well as how organized labor has been responding. Robert will also share key results of the most recent National PELRA Collective Bargaining Survey, and comment on major issues facing today’s public sector labor professional.

9:35am - 11:50am Workshops W1: Ten Things We Wish We Knew When We Were Starting Out

Lisa R. Callaway, Engler Callaway Baasten & Sraga, LLC / IL (Bronze Sponsor) & Philip A. Toomey, Leech Tishman Fuscaldo & Lampl LLC / CA (Bronze Sponsor)

Ever wonder, “why didn’t anyone tell me this?” Are there things you wish you could ask but are afraid of being labeled the “newbie”? Join Phil and Lisa in a comfortable setting to learn the things all labor and HR professionals should know to ease the transition and make them seasoned labor professionals. Among other key topics, they will discuss important steps to take when receiving a grievance, a checklist for a disciplinary meeting and preparation tools for negotiations. Come prepared with the questions you always wanted to ask. And remember, there are no bad questions.

W2: Building Employee Engagement - A Roadmap and Lessons Learned Robert J. Lavigna, CPS HR Consulting - Institute for Public Sector Employee Engagement / CA (Silver Sponsor)

Decades of research have proven that employee engagement drives performance in government, including:

• Achieving strategic goals • Providing responsive customer service • Retaining talent and fostering collaboration • Developing innovative solutions • Boosting attendance • Ensuring on-the-job safety

This interactive session will describe a roadmap to improved engagement and share a baker’s dozen of lessons based on surveying tens of thousands of employees in government organizations across the nation.

W3:Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges - Effective Strategies for Enhancing Diversity and Inclusiveness Ron Holifield, Strategic Government Resources / TX (Silver Sponsor)

This dynamic and fast paced session will help you tackle one of the biggest challenges your organization faces and take home practical, real world and cost effective strategies to start making a

Tues

day

10

Tuesdaydifference immediately. At the conclusion of the session, participants will take home:

1. Insights into the barriers to creating an inclusive and diverse organization. 2. An understanding of the impact of cultural dynamics and unintentional messaging

that shapes perspectives and presumptions. 3. A set of very practical and effective strategies that they can implement quickly and

cost effectively.

W4: Arbitration Panel Labor Relation Practitioners and Attorneys

Join a panel of labor relations practitioners as we have an interactive discussion on a real life, high-profile public sector arbitration case. The panel will discuss strategies that were deployed in this excessive use of force case, what the agency did well and what lessons were learned. Finally, you will learn how the public outcry was used to leverage change in the collective bargaining agreement.   

W5: Crisis At Work: Workplace Violence and Active Shooter Carol Cambridge, CEO, The Stay Safe Project / AZ

In an active shooter scenario, you have only seconds to make a decision! In the midst of panic and chaos anyone can play an integral role in mitigating the impacts of an active shooter situation. The first half of this program will focus on prevention and the second half will focus on surviving an active shooter.

As hate, violence and tension rise in our communities, so does workplace violence and active shooter situations. In this interactive and experiential workshop you’ll learn the #1 strategy for reducing workplace violence. You’ll leave with an understanding of current trends and how Cross Silo Safety Leadership can save lives. Carol will answer your questions and concerns, calm your fears, train your brain to respond to an active shooter situation and give you the information you need to make quick life-saving decisions.

12:00pm - 1:00pm NeoGov Lunch (Platinum Sponsor) (Registration Required)

12:00pm - 1:00pm State Presidents Lunch Meeting (Special Invitation)

1:15pm - 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions C11: Preparing and Delivering Anti-Harassment Training : What

you Need to Know to Deliver an Effective Program Kelly A. Hayden, HR Source / IL

Many states require or are considering requiring anti-harassment training. Like almost anything, anti-harassment training can be outsourced or delivered by in-house staff. While cost savings will certainly be a factor in the short run, you want to make sure the savings is worth it and that your employees receive effective training–particularly if that training comes under scrutiny because of a lawsuit.

This presentation will address: 1) the topics you need to cover in a training session 2) factors that often send training sessions down the wrong path; and 3) common questions that arise in training sessions (and that you should be prepared to answer).

C12:The Aftermath of #MeToo – Evolving Issues Karen M. Morinelli, Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. / FL (Bronze Sponsor)

Ever since Ronan Farrow’s New Yorker Magazine articles in 2017, the #MeToo movement has resulted in the very public discussion regarding sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace and the departures of high profile individuals over a variety of industries.  This session will look at the origins of the movement, resulting litigation and what state governments are doing regarding public policy and non-disclosure agreements.

11

Tues

day

1:15pm - 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions Continued C13: FLSA Update

Lisa S. Charbonneau, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore / CA Are you up to date on the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) – the nationwide

law that regulates minimum wages and overtime? Do you think your managers and supervisors are following FLSA provisions correctly? FLSA expert and public sector attorney, Lisa Charbonneau, will provide an update on recent need-to-know FLSA decisions, new DOL FLSA rules, and litigation trends, as well as other changes in the legal landscape nationwide that you and your agency need to know, focusing on the issues that challenge agencies most. You’ll leave this session with valuable information that will help your agency prevent and/or address FLSA problems and minimize future liability.

C14: Legislative Update from the Hill Neil Reichenberg, IPMA-HR / VA

This session will provide an update on legislative, regulatory and judicial issues impacting public sector HR and labor relations. Topics to be covered include health care reform, FLSA regulations, minimum wage, public sector pensions, use of prior salary, paycheck fairness, family leave, and sexual orientation/transgender discrimination.

C15: The Employee Benefit Challenges of a Multi-Generational Workforce Daniel Maniaci, The Maniaci Group / CA (Silver Sponsor)

The session will discuss the different management requirements for each of the four generations that comprise today’s workforce. The discussion will focus on finding a balance between noting and accommodating the apparent generational differences to successfully manage a multi-generational workforce. We will address the specific employee benefits that are appreciated and unique to each generation. The session will include the communication strategies necessary to achieve an employee benefit program valued by each employee generation. The goal of the session is to better understand multi-generational employees and to improve workplace environment, management style and employee productivity.

2:30pm - 2:50pm Sponsors’ Drawing (Must be present in the Exhibit Hall to win)

2:50pm - 4:05pm Plenary Session P4: Diversity and Inclusion - An Authentic Look at Who

has a Seat at the Table and Who’s Allowed to Speak LaToya C. Merritt, Phelps Dunbar, LLP / MS (Silver Sponsor)

HR organizational leaders are responsible for ensuring that their employers have current, effective EEO policies that are understood by all and prioritized by management. This session will explore the meaning of “diversity teams” and take an in-depth look at what lurks behind the labels. We also will explore the success potential when an organization’s EEO policies are prioritized to create an environment that attracts and retains the most talented and skilled persons available.

12

Tuesday4:15pm - 5:15pm Concurrent Session Bonus Session: Focus on Creating Labor Agreements that

are Sustainable Savannah Rucker, Nye County / NV, Steven Espinoza, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority / CA, Charles Francis, Retired Local Government Finance Director / CA & Ted Price, AdastraGov Inc. / CA (Emerald Sponsor)

Because most labor agreements are effective for several years, an agency’s labor relations strategy must be aligned with its financial and strategic planning process. As part of the planning process, an agency must estimate the impacts of current contracts as well as proposals for the next contracts to assess its future financial condition and evaluate its ability to maintain services and expand or initiate new programs. In this session you’ll learn about calculating and incorporating the costs of labor during negotiations into the budgeting and long-term financial planning processes.

6:00pm - 9:30pm Tuesday Night Event: Saddle Up Y’all for a Knee Slappin’ Good Time

They say everything is bigger in Texas and that is true when it comes to the National PELRA Tuesday Night Reception. Texas appetizers and Texas BBQ are on the plate for dinner….don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes (or boots and spurs) and join us on the dance floor for some good ole line dancing as our DJ will liven up the night with your favorite tunes! And that is not all folks….riding a bull on your bucket list? Well you can cross that off the list when you ride the mechanical bull “BOSS”! There will be other party events this evening, do I hear cornhole? Y’all are in for a great evening with colleagues and friends. (Guest Tickets Available)

Phelps Dunbar LLP is a proud sponsor of the National PELRA’s 49th Annual Training

Conference.

LaToya C. Merritt, Partner

latoya.merritt@phelps.com|601-360-9374

Phelps Dunbar LLP |4270 I-55 North| Jackson, Mississippi, 39211phelps.com

13

Wed

nesd

ay 6:00am - 7:00am Walk / Run Join us as we wake up early and start the day off with a walk with your colleagues in the

midst of the peaceful early morning of the city. Breathe in the morning air and return to the conference with a refreshed spirit and clear mind.

7:30am - 8:30am Continental Breakfast Come and enjoy a continental breakfast with your colleagues and friends before the opening

session. (Badge Required for Entry)

7:30am - 12:00pm Registration

8:30am - 8:55am National PELRA Business Meeting

9:00am – 10:15am Plenary Session P5: From Government Organization to Public Sector Enterprise...

Winning the Talent War with Exceptional People Management Strategy, Employee Communication & Technology Keith Friede, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. / MN (Gold Sponsor)

The talent war is “on,” and most public sector employers are feeling the pressure. Every public sector employer needs to differentiate itself, certainly in competition for talent with other public sector employers, but increasingly in competition for talent with all employers. A mountain of data is confirming that talent management issues are by far the #1 operations and HR priority for everyone, so public employers must very quickly shift from an “organizational maintenance” approach to an “enterprise” approach to talent – characterized by bold, assertive actions that will make them a formidable competitor. This starts with a sound people management strategy, and includes very effective (for some, even revolutionary) employee communication, aided by well-selected, effectively utilized, technology. This session will engage you in an exciting, cutting-edge discussion on how this is being done by innovative public sector employers, and how you can make it happen in your public sector enterprise!

10:30am – 11:45am Concurrent Sessions C16: Modern Legal Solutions to Address Current Employees’ Claims

for Physical and Mental Disabilities While Avoiding Liability Under the ADA, HIPAA, GINA, and Other Federal and State Health Laws Bradley W. Howard, Brown & Fortunato, P.C. / TX (Bronze Sponsor)

Public employers are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal magnitude of the federal and state issues they encounter as they address employee claims of physical and mental disabilities. Federal and state health care laws, HIPAA, GINA, and an alphabet soup of laws make it difficult for public employers to always get it right. This high energy and very interactive session will include a fast-paced overview of the most current legal problems encountered by public employers as they address physical and mental disability claims by current employees, including HIPAA traps, emerging genetic information issues, and other modern legal problems you should avoid.

C17: Workplace Civility - Why You Gotta Be So Rude? Lisa Callaway, Engler Callaway Baasten & Sraga, LLC / IL (Bronze Sponsor) & Amy Moor Gaylord , Akerman LLP / IL

Join us in this interactive session where we confront bad manners in the workplace. We’ll take on workplace civility, effective workplace communication, and solid conflict resolution practices. Takeaways include effective tools for communication breakdowns and fostering a positive environment at your workplace.

14

Wednesday

C18: Common Sense Communication - How to Avoid Legal Entanglements Philip A. Toomey, Leech Tishman Fuscaldo & Lampl / CA (Bronze Sponsor) While most public employees are more “electronically” connected than ever, training supervisors “how” to speak with one another in the workplace, and when and what to document, continues to challenge even the most mature public employers. In terms of people being directed, many grievances, mediations, arbitrations and litigation could be avoided by training supervisors “how” to engage with their workers, “where” to provide direction, “what” to do when challenged, and “when” to follow up, and “what” to document (or avoid documenting). Likewise, “how,” “what” and “when” managers communicate with each other often can be the decisive point when a labor practice or imposed discipline is challenged. This workshop will give a simple set of tools that can be replicated in the workplace and avoid the legal entanglements when “that’s not what I meant…” becomes the key issue.

C19: Numbers at the Table: What Negotiators Need to Know About Finance and Budget Michael Nadol, PFM Group Consulting LLC / PA & Danielle Scott, PFM Group Consulting LLC / PA (Bronze Sponsor)

Do you ever feel like you and your Finance/Budget team speak different languages? This session is designed to help you be more conversant, approaching bilingual, in both “finance/budget” and “labor/HR.” Through interactive exercises, the session will demystify many of the key financial topics that impact collective bargaining – from how to think about reserves to what the credit rating agencies really think about labor agreements and costs. In addition, we will share practical ideas for coordinating with colleagues in finance/budget roles, focusing on how better numbers can yield better (interest-based) results at the table.

C20: Communication and Continuous Improvement: The State of Wisconsin’s Benefits Story Tara Pray, Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds / WI & Lara Khalaf, Jellyvision / IL

To be innovative with your benefits communication strategy is to be brave and bold, especially in government. Tara Pray, Communications Lead for Strategic Health Policy at the State of Wisconsin, has embarked on the journey toward better communications – and she has improved employee engagement metrics to show for it. In this presentation, Tara will provide an overview of the steps she took to modernize benefits communications and the challenges she overcame along the way. Together with Lara Khalaf, Senior Strategic Account Manager at Jellyvision, she will offer behavioral science insights and advice for updating benefits communications to connect with a diverse and scattered workforce.

12:00pm - 1:00pm National PELRA Foundation Luncheon 2019 has been a great year for the National PELRA Foundation and we want to share all that

has been accomplished with you. Enjoy a delightful meal and learn who will be the recipients of this year’s Tony Russo Scholarship Awards. There will be a raffle for Foundation contributors, with some amazing gifts donated by the State PELRAs. Lunch is open to all National PELRA registered attendees, speakers, and sponsors. (Badge Required for Entry)

1:15pm - 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions C21: The Real Costs of “No Cost” Bargaining

Ben Gehrt, Clark Baird Smith LLP / IL (Diamond Sponsor) Unions often come to the bargaining table with a list of requests that they claim are “free”

to the employer. These bargaining demands might include infringements on important managerial rights. While the union claims the proposals might be “free,” the real cost of these proposals can often be more impactful and long-lasting than actual economic proposals. This session will help employers identify and respond to “no cost” proposals.

15

Wed

nesd

ay 1:15pm - 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions Continued C22: Going Green: Working with Employees Who Are Legally(ish)

Working with Weed Ben Reber, Wiley Law Office, PC / MN

Marijuana is bad, or so we were told for many years.  Now that marijuana is legal in some form in over two-thirds of the United States, it is fairly clear that legal cannabis isn’t going away.  Because of this, it is important for employers to understand their rights, and the rights of their employees who utilize this polarizing substance.  Ben will guide you through the laws governing your state: from illegal, to medical, to recreational cannabis, and highlight some of the more unique laws across the land. With the penalties “growing” for employers who fail to follow the law, you can’t afford to sleep on this presentation. 

C23: Health Insurance A to Z and Bargaining Better Language Brian D. Butcher, Clemans, Nelson & Associates, Inc. / OH & Andrew A. Esposito, Clemans, Nelson & Associates, Inc. / OH

Health care is one of the most valuable benefits to employees in any organization. However, rising costs, numerous legislative changes, and bad collective bargaining language has made it difficult for employers to provide it at an affordable cost for both the employee and the employer. This session will cover glossary of terms, taking advantage of wellness incentives, eliminating restrictive collective bargaining language, and other innovative techniques to control cost.

C24: Conducting Investigations: Who To Do It, What To Ask, and Things To Look Out For Douglas E. Duckett, Duckett Law Firm, LLC / OH (Bronze Sponsor)

The speaker, an attorney and Past National PELRA President, conducts internal investigations all over the country as a major part of his law practice. This program will look at a range of issues involved in internal investigations: What kinds of issues trigger the need to investigate? How do you decide who will do it, and whether that person is within the organization or do you need to go outside? How do you decide the first steps? What if the investigation involves possible criminal conduct as well? What is a Garrity warning and when do you need to use it? How do you decide whom to interview in what order? How do you order and frame your questions? How do you close the investigation and take next steps? Human resources directors and administrators often find this job landing in their laps with no real training, and this program aims to give you a framework to tackle this vital task.

C25: An EEOC Charge Has Been Filed Against My Organization – Now What? S. Leigh Jeter, LaPointe Law, P.C. / IL

In fiscal year 2018, the EEOC received 76,418 charges of workplace discrimination and secured $505 million for employees in a variety of different workplaces. While a charge being filed does not mean that the allegations have merit, it does mean that the employer needs to respond promptly, thoroughly, and effectively to the charge. In this session, employers will learn what to do if they are served with an EEOC or other administrative charges. This session also will examine current EEOC trends and things to watch out for in your workplace.

2:45pm – 4:00pm Closing General Session P6: Legal Update

Kenneth Weinstock, Kainen Escalera & McHale, p.c. / CT Join one of our most popular speakers, Attorney Kenneth Weinstock, in a presentation

describing the critical decisions that have come this past year from the courts. Learn how public employers have been affected by these decisions and some practical solutions so your agency does not get caught in the same trap. This is a “must-attend” session! 

Make sure you stay until the end to see if you win the free registration to the National PELRAs 50th Annual Training Conference in New Orleans, LA in April 2021.

16

Benefits for Secure and Healthy FuturesSegal helps employers build plans that improve health and retirement readiness.

17

8:00am - 4:00pm Academy Elective: Investigations

Human resources and labor relations professionals are often called upon to conduct workplace investigations in the face of serious and sensitive allegations, from claims of sexual harassment/other discrimination to allegations of workplace misconduct to major ethical questions. Yet few of us have had real training on how to conduct an investigation. This program will explore the investigatory process – from who should conduct the investigation, legal issues to beware of, how to order and structure investigatory interviews, dealing with Garrity issues, and how to generate an end-product that will help your employer resolve what happened and what needs to be done. The program will focus on identifying the key elements of an effective workplace investigation process, and help attendees understand the importance of the process and the consequences if it is not done properly. Participants will learn the purpose and importance of a complete and thorough investigation, review the key elements of an effective workplace investigation, discuss the roles and responsibilities of supervisor, employee, and union and discuss how to determine credibility and analyze investigation results.

9:00am - 11:00am Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP®) Exam

Are you ready for your CLRP®? The National PELRA is again offering the CLRP Exam for those who are working towards their Certified Labor Relations Professional Certification. The CLRP Exam is a two-hour exam for those individuals that have met the requirements for certification by completing Academies I, II and III. (Registration Required)

Thur

sday

Follow us on Social Media

Stay up to date on National PELRA Academies, Webinars, the Annual Training Conference and more!

Facebook:@NationalPELRA

Twitter:@NPELRA

LinkedIn:National PELRA

Instagram:@npelra

18

It’s more than software. It’s a community.

Join a community of 250,000+

using NEOGOV to make HR easier

NEOGOV makes HR, payroll, and talent management

easier with our complete HR software suite.

Customers say NEOGOV helps them:

Save time and money

Reduce paper processes

Improve regulatory requirement compliance

Increase employee productivity and engagement

Streamline HR, payroll, and time & attendance

Call 866.636.4681 or visit neogov.com to see a demonstration

19

Located in Central Texas on the eastern edge of the American Southwest, Austin is the capital of the state of Texas, the Lone Star State. The city dates back to the 1830’s, when the first Anglo-American settlers arrived in the area, then part of Mexico. In 1837, settlers founded the village of Waterloo on the banks of the Colorado River, the first permanent settlement in the area. By 1839, Waterloo would adopt the name Austin and the frontier town would become the capital of the Republic of Texas. The City is named for Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas.”

Whether it is sightseeing, shopping, restaurants, spas or golf…Austin has it all.

To DoWalk the 10.2 mile loop on the boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake, ride mountain bikes or electric powered bikes to downtown Austin or on Austin’s premier mountain bike trails, take a tour, or relax as you float down the Guadalupe and

San Marcos rivers. If you are feeling adventurous, view some of Austin’s best scenery as you zip line across the forest at Lake Travis.

Austin’s #1 activity (9 months out of the year), is viewing the Congress Bridge Bats. Marvel as you watch 1.5 million bats pepper the sky in their nightly departure from Congress Bridge in their relentless and appreciated pursuit to rid us of mosquitoes.

Located about 25 miles north of Austin lies Inner Space Cavern. You and your friends, family, or crew can tour below the ground and explore a natural cavern formed millions of years ago beneath one of Texas’ busiest interstate

highways. Inner Space Cavern is filled with history, mystery and chemistry! This all-season activity caters to large groups and offers one of the most engaging afternoon activities in Texas.

Food LoversRows of cute bungalows have been transformed into Rainey Street, a lively scene of restaurants, bars and food trucks. Have brunch at the newly expanded Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden or dinner at Emmer & Rye, hailed by Bon

Appétit as one of the best restaurants in the country. Right outside draft wine bar The Drafting Room you’ll find the charming outdoor L’Estelle House, specializing in French fusion with a Texas twist.

Sixth Street provides you with craft beer, authentic ramen, or if you want night life and dancing, head to Maggie Mae’s rooftop. Top it off at the Midnight Cowboy, known for their creative cocktails.

DowntownThe heart of Austin beats in the Downtown area, home to live music venues, historic theaters, museums and trendy 2nd Street District boutiques. If you are looking for live music venues, Red River Street provides everything

from rock, hip-hop as well as local up-and-coming bands!

Eclectic central Austin is located just north of the AT&T Conference Center and is home to everything from country bars, museums, restaurants and lounges. During your breaks visit one of the University’s many museums including the LBJ Presidential Library, Harry Ransom Center and the Blanton Museum of Art.

Well, if you are one of the lucky winners, your National PELRA Foundation raffle ticket could win you one of several amazing gift baskets, a $50, $100 or $200 gift card, unique, beautiful jewelry, a one-of-a-kind signed comic by Blaise Lamphier, and much, much more! Plan to purchase your raffle tickets in Austin and drop by the Foundation raffle table to see all of the wonderful gifts available! All proceeds go to the National PELRA Foundation Scholarship Fund.

What can you get for a dollar?

About the City of Austin!

20

DIAMOND LEVEL

GOLD LEVEL

EMERALD LEVEL

SILVER LEVEL

BRONZE LEVEL

PLATINUM LEVEL

PHELPS DUNBAR

Increase your organization’s visibility in a cost-effective way by becoming a sponsor at a level that’s right for you. All sponsorships support the conference and the work of the National Public

Employer Labor Relations Association (National PELRA). Sponsorships are still available and those received by February 1, 2020 will be acknowledged in the conference attendee badge

book and onsite signage at the conference.

Contact Krista Lempe for more information at858.299.3150 or krista@npelra.org.

Thanks to our Sponsors!

21

Read a few reviews from our members: “Whether new to the field of public labor relations or a more seasoned LR professional, you will find everything you need in Much Smarter Bargaining. Each chapter includes clear and easy to understand introductions, useful language for your CBA’s and explanations of clauses to avoid. It is a superb compilation of the good, the bad and the ugly.” - Jenna Richardson - Human Resources Manager, City of Bonney Lake, Washington

“Clark Baird Smith LLP has authored a must-read if you are involved in negotiating public sector labor agreements…Read this book and learn from some of the very best in the field labor negotiations.” - Brent Long - Senior Labor Relations Analyst, Pierce County, Washington

“Much Smarter Bargaining is a culmination of every topic, and every point of bargaining. It truly is an all-encompassing one-stop manual for the negotiator. This gem is a must read for any labor management professional. Examples, templates and sample verbiage along with factual counterpoints are all here. MSB is the Elkouri manual for bargaining.” - Rick Hunt - Human Resources Administrator, City of Las Vegas, Las Vegas

Much Smarter Bargaining is a new book that was written specifically for those professionals working in the field of Labor Relations or Human Resources that are involved in the Public Sector. It consists of modern day contract language for today’s public negotiator.

Much Smarter Bargaining is packed with almost 700 pages full of sampling bargaining clauses from existing contracts, negotiation issues unique to education employers, and it helps prepare you for bargaining and the scope of duty to bargain.

As a National PELRA Member you are eligible for a $250 discount off the Non-Member rate.Coming Soon on eBook!

The Reviews are in on the New Book Much Smarter Bargaining!

To order your copy go to www.npelra.org

22

Conference schedule is subject to change without notice. Please visit www.npelra.org/ATC for the most up-to-date information.

DON’T MISS OUT, REGISTER TODAY!GO TO WWW.NPELRA.ORG/ATCREGISTRATION

Members can save up to $390 - Sign up before January 10, 2020

CONFERENCE FEES:

Sunday, April 26 - Thursday, April 30 , 2020Member Rates:

$609.00 - Early Bird rate (through 1-10-20)$679.00 - Regular rate (1-11-20 through 3-20-20)$759.00 - Late rate (on or after 3-21-20)

Non-Member Rate: $999.00

One-Day registration: Member: $299.00 (each day)Non-Member: $469.00 (each day)

Labor Relations Academies (for each Academy):Member: $299Non-Member: $399

Pre-Conference Workshop:Member or Non-Member: $99

CLRP® Exam:Member: $100Non-Member: $250

Additional Guest Tickets - Social Events Welcome Reception $40 ($59 if purchased after 3-20-20)

Tuesday Grand Reception Night $100 ($125 if purchased after 3-20-20)

Golf TournamentMember or Non-Member: $100

AT&T HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER1900 UNIVERSITY AVENUE • AUSTIN, TX 78705

877-744-8822 • www.meetattexas.com

The AT&T Hotel has set aside a limited block of rooms for National PELRA conference attendee’s at a special rate of

$225 (+ tax) per night (single/double). Mention National PELRA when making your reservation.

This special rate is in effect until April 2, 2020 or until the block has reached capacity. Book early!

PARTNER HOTELS AC Hotel Austin-University

1901 San Antonio StreetAustin, Texas 78705

512-473-8920The AC Hotel Austin-University (Marriott) has set

aside a limited block of rooms for the National PELRA Conference.

The special rate is $229 per night (single/double) and will be available until April 4, 2020.

Hampton Inn & Suites Austin by Hilton @ The University/Capitol

1701 Lavaca StreetAustin, Texas 78701

512-499-8881The Hampton by Hilton has set aside a limited block of

rooms for the National PELRA Conference. The special rate is $225 per night (single/double) and

will be available until March 30, 2020.

Visit www.npelra.org/ATC for complete details

23

National Public EmployerLabor Relations Association10951 Sorrento Valley Road, Suite 2KSan Diego, CA 92121

Return Service Requested

National PELRAs 50th Anniversary! 2021 Annual Training Conference New Orleans, LA April 18-22

Save The Date Celebrating 50 Years!