Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed House Bill 297, known as the Mandatory Interest Arbitration Bill, into law. This legislation marks a significant development for Chicago’s principals and assistant principals, ensuring a neutral arbitration process in labor negotiations. The bill was introduced by the Chicago Principals and Administrators Association (CPAA), AFSA Local 2.
The new law provides school leaders with an impartial mechanism to resolve contract disputes, similar to rights already available to other unionized public employees. CPAA President Troy LaRaviere emphasized that this law ensures fairness in contract negotiations for principals and assistant principals. He acknowledged the coalition of supporters who contributed to the bill’s passage, viewing it as both a procedural change and a moral validation for educational leaders.
Kia Banks, CPAA’s Chief of Staff and Lead Negotiator, highlighted the importance of this legislation in preventing delays and focusing on improving learning environments for students. The law comes at a crucial time as CPAA begins negotiating its first collective bargaining agreement (CBA). With binding arbitration now in place, potential deadlocks in talks can be resolved more effectively.
The legislative journey saw strong unity among CPAA members, who actively engaged in lobbying efforts that garnered bipartisan support. Kent Lau, CPAA Director of Operations, described the moment as unprecedented for school leaders across Chicago.
State Senator Willie Preston and State Representative William Davis played key roles in advancing the bill. Governor Pritzker’s approval was seen as strengthening both the profession and the stability of Chicago’s public schools.
With this legislative victory secured, CPAA is now focused on negotiating an equitable contract that acknowledges the critical role of school leaders in student success.
