Home

Welcome

We are the State agency with jurisdiction over public sector labor relations and collective bargaining in Ohio. We assist parties in resolving labor-management disputes.

odx-read-more

Services provided by SERB

SERB offers an array of dispute resolution services from mediation and training to the adjudication of unfair labor practices, grievances, and other complaints. We are also responsible for the composition of bargaining units, conducting representation elections, and adding or removing a position from a bargaining unit.

odx-read-more

Labor Relations Training

SERB Mediators travel statewide to provide training to public employers and unions to help improve labor management relationships.

odx-read-more

What is SERB?

The State Employment Relations Board (SERB) administers the Ohio Public Employees’ Collective Bargaining Act through a three-member Board, appointed by the Governor and supported by a staff of 24. Board members are appointed to staggered six-year terms, and only two Board members may be of the same political party. One Board member is designated by the Governor as the agency’s Chair and serves as its appointing authority.

Read the statutes

O.R.C. Chapter 4117

O.A.C. Chapter 4117

Who Does SERB Serve?

SERB adjudicates filings brought by employee organizations (unions), public employees, and public employers. A public employer is any state or political subdivision located entirely within the state (including any counties, municipal corporations and townships with a population of 5,000). We also serve school districts and state colleges, as well as state agencies, authorities, commissions, boards and other branches of public employment. Public employer does not include nonprofit corporations. For a full explanation of who we serve, please refer to the definitions under O.R.C. Chapter 4117.01.

Are you a public employee or employer?

Read this article to find out if SERB can help you, or find the right agency.