Whenever it appears to the employer or employees concerned in a labor dispute, or when a strike or lockout is threatened, or actually occurs, he or they may request the services of the board. [PL 1985, c. 294, §§2, 3 (NEW).]

If, when the request or notification is received, it appears that a substantial number of employees in the department, section or division of the business of the employer are involved, the board shall endeavor, by conciliation, to obtain an amicable settlement. If the board is unable to obtain an amicable settlement it shall endeavor to persuade the employer and employees to submit the matter to arbitration. [PL 1985, c. 294, §§2, 3 (NEW).]

The board shall, upon notification, as soon as practicable, visit the place where the controversy exists or arrange a meeting of the interested parties at a convenient place, and shall make careful inquiry into the cause of the dispute or controversy, and the board may, with the consent of the Governor, conduct the inquiry beyond the limits of the State. [PL 1985, c. 294, §§2, 3 (NEW).]

The board shall hear all interested persons who come before it, advise the respective parties what ought to be done by either or both to adjust the controversy, and shall make a confidential written report to the Governor and the Executive Director of the Maine Labor Relations Board. The Governor or executive director shall make the report public if, after 15 days from the date of its receipt, the parties have not resolved the controversy and the public interest would be served by publication. In addition, either the Governor or the executive director may refer the report and recommendations of the board to the Attorney General or other department for appropriate action when it appears that any of the laws of this State may have been violated. [PL 2015, c. 250, Pt. C, §3 (AMD).]