Deputies union loses labor appeal

The state board that rules in union disputes sided with Pasco Sheriff Bob White in an unfair labor practice filed by the deputies union earlier this year.

In an order issued late Thursday, the Public Employees Relations commission dismissed the Fraternal Order of Police's charge that White's policy barring the use of interoffice mail and agency e-mail for distributing union literature amounted to a violation of state statute.

The matter went before a hearing officer, who recommended the claim be dismissed and that no attorney's fees be awarded to either side. Both sides filed objections -- White arguing for attorney's fees. Thursday's order allows his agency to collect fees only on the issue of the use of e-mail.

Another hearing will be held to determine the dollar amount.

Pasco deputies voted in 2006 to form a collective bargaining unit. Union and agency representatives have met numerous times this year to reach an initial contract. At the onset, 30 different issues were on the table. After Thursday's ruling dismissing the mail issue, the sides are down to two.

Deputies are seeking gap medical coverage for retirees and a more liberal demotion appeal process.

-- Molly Moorhead, Times staff writer