10.2190/JAB9-W8MM-2YLM-T621 JAB9W8MM2YLMT621 0 WAGE LINES AND COMPARABLE WORTH: GAINERS, LOSERS, AND THE PROSPECTS FOR FREE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING 20020509 20020509 20020509 20020509 http://baywood.metapress.com/link.asp?target=contribution&id=JAB9W8MM2YLMT621 1 JAMES G. SCOVILLE AND ROSS E. AZEVEDO Under state law, all political subdivisions in Minnesota have implemented a system of "comparable worth," a policy mandate that can be in conflict with collective bargaining. Using data from a particular school district, comparisons are made of the effects several specifications of the wage line could have on the practice of collective bargaining in the public sector. Inconsistencies and the implications for collective bargaining are noted. Finally, a proposal is advanced that makes common sense, meets the requirements of Minnesota law, and would restore "free collective bargaining" for the major employee groups in a governmental unit.