The first test of Governor Bob Holden’s executive order allowing some state workers the right to bargain collectively has seen the state’s probation and parole workers vote overwhelmingly in favor of joining a union. The group has voted 531 to 199 to be represented by the Service Employees International Union. Two smaller groups of state employees – workforce development workers and employment security employees – voted against the move. The issue of whether the Governor overstepped his authority by issuing the executive order is still before the courts.
