Sec. 174.151. MEDIATION. (a) A public employer and an association that is a bargaining agent may use mediation to assist them in reaching an agreement.

(b) If a mediator is used, then a mediator may be appointed by agreement of the parties or by an appropriate state agency.

(c) A mediator may:

(1) hold separate or joint conferences as the mediator considers expedient to settle issues voluntarily, amicably, and expeditiously; and

(2) notwithstanding Subsection (d), recommend or suggest to the parties any proposal or procedure that in the mediator's judgment might lead to settlement.

(d) A mediator may not:

(1) make a public recommendation on any negotiation issue in connection with the mediator's service; or

(2) make a public statement or report that evaluates the relative merits of the parties' positions.

Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 269, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.