During the recent Civil Service Board meeting in Miami, a significant discussion centered on the implications of a provision in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) regarding employee absences. The provision states that an employee who is absent for three consecutive workdays without notifying the city may be considered to have abandoned their position. This policy has raised concerns about its fairness and the potential denial of due process for employees.

Board members highlighted that the enforcement of this provision requires that the employee has not communicated their absence to the city. Critics of the policy argue that it is overly harsh, as it does not allow employees the opportunity to contest their termination or provide valid reasons for their absence.

An example was presented to illustrate the complexity of the situation: if an employee were to physically assault a supervisor, the city could justifiably terminate their employment without invoking the abandonment clause. However, the meeting emphasized the need for clarity and fairness in how such provisions are applied, particularly in cases where employees may have legitimate reasons for their absence.

The board's discussions reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that employees are treated fairly and that their rights are protected within the framework of the CBA. As the city moves forward, the implications of these discussions could lead to revisions in policy that better balance the needs of the city with the rights of its employees.