Union groups blast Ohio collective bargaining bill

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Union leaders in Ohio say no amount of changes could fix a bill that would dramatically reduce collective bargaining rights for public employees.

The workers’ unions gave their assessment today as a state Senate committee was gathering amendments to the measure.

The initial proposal would have banned all collective bargaining by state employees. Republican senators have agreed to modify it to allow workers to negotiate on wages. Unions could not bargain for benefits, sick time, vacation or other conditions.

A state Senate panel is likely to vote on the legislation next week.

Leaders of unions representing teachers, public school employees, state troopers and other public workers say the bill is designed to eliminate the collective voice of employees. They say no amendments could make it acceptable.