Tensions both locally and around the state remain high as debate swirls around a bill aimed to reduce what public employees can bargain for at the negotiating table.

At an Issues and Eggs forum in Oskaloosa Saturday, State Senator Ken Rozenboom and State Representative Guy Vander Linden, who both also represent Pella, were challenged by many from a crowd of approximately 100 about the measure that is expected to be voted on within the next two weeks.

In response to the opposition they heard from during the session, both legislators defended the Republican party’s efforts to give what they say is more local control to city councils, school boards, and other state supervisor positions through collective bargaining.

Both Vander Linden and Rozenboom expressed support the bill moving through both chambers. Vander Linden says provisions allowing more flexibility for arbitrators to decide between the two parties are the primary reason why he’s in favor. Both also stated the need to curb the process they feel is out of balance. The many speakers that came to oppose them argued for how the legislation would adversely affect the employees impacted, as well as expressed their frustration with how the legislators have handled the process.

If the bill is approved, all state employees–except for firefighters and police, will only be able to negotiate wages during the annual bargaining process. Republicans have argued the measure is necessary and would help curb the cost of government.

Hear more from Senator Rozenboom about the potential collective bargaining changes on today’s Let’s Talk Pella.