Department of Labor Relations – Boston, MA

Department of Labor Relations (DLR)

Public Sector Labor Oversight

The Department of Labor Relations (DLR), headquartered at the Lafayette City Center in Boston, is the primary agency responsible for preventing and resolving labor disputes involving public employees in Massachusetts. Established in its current form in 2007 through the merger of the Labor Relations Commission and the Board of Conciliation and Arbitration, the DLR enforces the state’s collective bargaining laws. It serves as a neutral adjudicatory body for public sector employers, unions, and employees, handling cases related to unfair labor practices, bargaining unit determinations, and union representation elections.

Dispute Resolution Services

The DLR offers a comprehensive suite of dispute resolution services designed to promote stable labor relations. These services include Mediation, where neutral specialists help parties reach voluntary agreements; Arbitration, where a neutral third party makes a binding decision on a grievance; and Fact-Finding, used primarily in contract negotiation impasses. The department also houses the Commonwealth Employment Relations Board (CERB), an appellate body that reviews hearing officer decisions and issues final rulings on legal matters arising under Chapter 150E.

Filing and Operations

Parties wishing to file charges or petitions can do so through the DLR’s electronic filing system or via mail. The agency’s Boston office is the central hub for hearings and investigations, though staff may conduct proceedings at other locations. Specific filing fees apply for arbitration and mediation services, which must be paid by the involved parties. The DLR plays a critical role in maintaining the continuity of public services by mitigating strikes and ensuring fair labor practices across the Commonwealth.

• Adjudication: Rulings on unfair labor practice charges.
• Mediation: Assisting in contract and grievance settlements.
• Elections: Overseeing union certification votes.

By enforcing labor laws impartially, the DLR fosters productive relationships between the government and its workforce, ensuring that the rights of all parties are respected.