Vernon Hills, IL - The Board of Directors has announced that the written paper option for the CLRP™ credential will officially sunset effective August 1, 2026. Candidates who initiate the written paper process prior to August 1, 2026, must complete all requirements no later than December 31, 2027. In addition, all papers currently in progress must be finalized by December 31, 2027. No extensions will be granted beyond this date.

This change will be formally published today. Direct communication will also be sent to all candidates with papers currently in process to ensure they clearly understand their individual timelines and any remaining requirements.

The decision reflects the continued evolution of the workforce and credentialing environment, the demonstrated effectiveness of the online examination model, and advancements in examination standardization best practices. Data further supports this transition: more than 94% of CLRP™ recipients now earn the designation through the online examination process.

The Board believes this transition strengthens the integrity, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of the CLRP™ designation and positions both the credential and the profession for continued success in the future.

For additional information, please visit www.npelra.org or contact info@npelra.org 

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National PELRA Remembers Past President Blaise Lamphier

52^nd National PELRA Board President

Vernon Hills, IL – The National Public Employee Labor Relations Association (PELRA) mourns the passing of Blaise Lamphier of Portland, Oregon, a longtime member and former president of the National PELRA Board of Directors.

Blaise Lamphier passed away on Tuesday morning, January 6, 2026, at his home surrounded by family.

A PELRA member for more than two decades, Blaise served in leadership roles at both the chapter and national levels. He completed his term on the National PELRA Board of Directors as Immediate Past President in June 2025, following his service as Board President after accepting the appointment at the 2023 Annual Conference Business Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.

Throughout his career, Blaise was widely respected for his principled approach to public-sector labor and employee relations. From his early life in Meriden, Connecticut, through professional roles across the country, including service at the Port of Portland, he was known for his unwavering commitment to fairness, consistency, and ethical decision-making. A Truman Scholarship recipient, Blaise dedicated his career to advancing honest and objective public-sector operations.

Though not an attorney, Blaise worked closely with legal counsel throughout his career and was recognized for his ability to thoughtfully challenge assumptions and advocate for outcomes that were fair, just, and grounded in sound principles.

Outside of his professional life, Blaise was an avid baseball fan, player, and historian, as well as a talented hobby cartoonist. He is remembered by colleagues for his intellect, integrity, and generosity of spirit.

The PELRA community extends its deepest condolences to Blaise’s wife, daughter, family, friends, and colleagues.

The Port of Portland will host a Celebration of Life and invite friends and colleagues to join in remembering and celebrating Blaise’s life, leadership, and lasting contributions at the Port of Portland Headquarters Building at 7200 NE Portland Way. Click below to view the invitation.

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National PELRA Welcomes New Michigan Chapter to Its National Network

Vernon Hills, IL – The National Public Employer Labor Relations Association (National PELRA) welcomed the Great Lakes Public Employer Labor Relations Association (Great Lakes PELRA) as its newest affiliate chapter. With this addition, National PELRA strengthens its growing network of state chapters dedicated to empowering public-sector labor relations and HR professionals across the country.

Great Lakes PELRA was established by a group of experienced Michigan practitioners who recognized the value of local collaboration paired with the vast professional development opportunities, national advocacy, and educational resources provided through National PELRA. As the 24th affiliate chapter, Great Lakes PELRA members now benefit from both a strong Michigan-based network and access to the broader national community of peers and thought leaders.

“This is an exciting new chapter for Michigan’s public-sector HR and labor relations professionals,” said Jordie Kramer, Great Lakes PELRA Founder and Board President. “[Great Lakes] PELRA is designed to offer the best of both worlds – state-focused connections and the depth of tools, training, and support that come from being part of a nationwide network. We look forward to building a vibrant, collaborative community.”

With the addition of Great Lakes PELRA, National PELRA continues its commitment to expanding access to high-quality, relevant resources and training for all public-sector HR and labor relations professionals. The national organization remains a trusted partner for education, advocacy, and networking, connecting leaders across all levels of government.

“We are thrilled to welcome [Great Lakes] PELRA to the National PELRA family,” said Roxanne Bonner, National PELRA Board President. “Their commitment to excellence in public-sector labor relations aligns perfectly with our mission. We look forward to supporting their growth and amplifying their voice on the national stage.”

About National PELRA

National PELRA is the premiere non-profit organization for public-sector labor relations and human resources professionals, comprised of 24 affiliated state PELRAs with more than 2,200 members around the country. National PELRA is dedicated to providing education, advocacy, and resources to support the professional growth and effectiveness of its members.

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