Decision 0410E – Gonzales Union High School District

1) ALJ properly treated charging party's "memo" entitled "Amendment to Unfair Practice Charge" as the timely filing of a motion to amend. Respondent was put on notice by the memo, was given the opportunity to fully litigate the matter and cannot claim it was prejudiced by the procedural irregularity. 2) ALJ properly permitted amendment alleging that acts previously alleged as unilateral change also constitute retaliation. The amendment, although past the six-month period, simply adds a new theory to events that were timely alleged as a violation. It is the same conduct at issue and there is no evidence of prejudice to the respondent.

Charging party did not waive its right to negotiate about school calendar by failing to present specific proposals. Charging party's failure was reasonable given respondent's refusal to acknowledge that it had an obligation to negotiate.

Post-hearing substitution of ALJ because of resignation of ALJ who heard case does not deny due process and rehearing not required. Board itself made independent review of evidence and found it unnecessary to make credibility resolutions.

Employer removal of union Pepsi machine was not unlawful, even if for retaliatory reasons. In order to establish a violation, employee organization must establish the "rights guaranteed by this chapter" were at issue. Organization has no right to maintain a soft drink machine for its own profit on employer's property. Operation of the machine could constitute unlawful assistance.