This includes representing the State of Ohio as the chief labor relations entity in the negotiation of state labor contracts, managing dispute resolution through advocacy in mediation and arbitration, training state agencies on the labor contracts, daily contract administration and providing guidance to State agencies on the development of business continuity plans. OCB also provides guidance on human resources policies and application of the civil service law to the state agencies, boards and commissions under the Governor’s authority.

Analysis and Operations

The Analysis and Operations section provides a variety of support services that are crucial to the operation of OCB. The section produces and develops statistical and costing data necessary for contract negotiations and dispute resolution proceedings. The section also aids employee representatives and agencies in the resolution of contract implementation and maintenance issues, and maintains OCB’s web-based grievance databases, electronic information storage systems and management reporting functions.

Bargaining Contracts

OCB administers collective bargaining agreements with each of the organizations representing state employees. 

Business Continuity

Through the Office of Business Continuity, OCB provides support and solutions and offers guidance to State agencies on the development of viable, comprehensive Continuity of Operations plans and Business Continuity programs. This is accomplished by management of a singular, business continuity web-based planning tool available to all state agencies, boards, and commissions across the enterprise. In addition, the office provides for an electronic State employee emergency notification system (eNotify) and is DAS’ liaison with the State Emergency Operations Center.

Dispute Resolution and Training

The Dispute Resolution and Training section coordinates all mediations and arbitrations with agencies as well as the unions, which includes working with the unions to select mediators and arbitrators for state panels.  Additionally, OCB offers both statewide and agency specific training for exempt personnel. Statewide training is offered through OCB Academy, and includes a certificate program upon completion of all course areas relevant to public sector collective bargaining.

Labor Relations and Human Resources Policy

The Labor Relations and Human Resources Policy section assists external and internal agency customers in both collective bargaining and human resources. This section works closely with internal partners in DAS  To better assist external and internal agency customers, the staff in this section have agency assignments.

Workplace Injury Labor Management Approved Provider Committee (WILMAPC)

The WILMAPC oversees the Provider Panel, consisting of eligible approving providers for workers’ compensation claims involving Salary Continuation and Occupational Injury Leave.