What is a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)?

A Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) is a formal written agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of employment between the Police Department and a labor organization such as the Fraternal Order of Police. This agreement typically covers a wide range of topics, including wages, working conditions, benefits, grievance procedures, and other employment-related matters. The CBA is the result of negotiations between the employer (the Police Department) and the employee representatives (the Fraternal Order of Police) to ensure that the rights and interests of the officers are protected while also outlining the expectations and responsibilities of both parties.

This answer emphasizes the structured and official nature of a CBA, distinguishing it from informal arrangements or documents that focus on operational procedures or financial summaries. In comparison, an informal agreement would lack the legal standing and detail embedded in a CBA, while daily operational procedures and budget summaries cover entirely different aspects of the department's function. Hence, recognizing a CBA's role is crucial in understanding labor relations within law enforcement.