Doreen Spiotti v. Town of Wolcott

Summary

The court affirmed the denial of summary judgment, holding that its prior interpretation of the statute governing employees covered by collective bargaining agreements remains valid. The plain-meaning statute did not automatically invalidate that earlier statutory interpretation, and stare decisis, legislative acquiescence, and the absence of compelling reasons supported retaining it. The arbitration findings therefore did not have preclusive effect in the plaintiff's later statutory claims, although the arbitration decision could be admitted as evidence. No separate opinions were issued.