(a)      A petition for the election of an exclusive representative of a bargaining unit may be filed with the Board by:

            (1)      an employee organization seeking certification as exclusive representative; or

            (2)      an employee, a group of employees, or an employee organization seeking a new election to determine an exclusive representative.

      (b)      A petition shall:

            (1)      contain the information the Board requires; and

            (2)      be accompanied by a showing of interest supported by 30% of the employees in the appropriate unit indicating their desire to be exclusively represented by the petitioner for the purpose of collective bargaining.