Arbitrator Referrals

The BMS maintains a roster of up to 60 neutral arbitrators. Arbitrators selected for appointment to the BMS Roster must meet rigorous standards of relevant labor relations experience, knowledge of collective bargaining, and arbitration. Requirements for empanelment, referral, conduct and removal of persons on the roster are listed in Minnesota Rules Chapter 5530 and the Code of Professional Responsibility for Arbitrators of Labor-Management Dispute.

Names from the roster are forwarded to labor and management representatives upon written request. The Bureau will honor a request by any one party unless prohibited by the collective bargaining agreement or by other written agreement of the parties. Such prohibition must be brought to our attention at the time of a request or referral. Referrals from the list are made for contract and grievance disputes. Normal turnaround time for referrals is one to two business days.

Requesting an Arbitrator Referral

To Request an Arbitrator Panel (Choose One):

1. Complete the Request for Arbitrator Panel (online form preferred) or the Request for Arbitrator Panel form (PDF document).
   Please include the employer and labor/employee organization, the representatives of each party (including their emails and phone numbers), and a brief description of the nature of the grievance.
   
   
2. For Hard Copy Requests Only:
   Return requests to the Bureau of Mediation Services
   
   

3. By mail:
   Bureau of Mediation Services
   1021 Bandana Boulevard
   Suite 226
   St. Paul, MN 55108-5112

   OR

   By e-mail: mediation.services.bms@state.mn.us
   Requests via e-mail will be accepted for grievance disputes only.

   OR

   By fax: 651-643-3013

Questions or Comments regarding Arbitration

Bureau of Mediation Services
651-649-5421
mediation.services.bms@state.mn.us