Articles on workplace-related issues from newspapers and Internet news sources around the country.
May 20, 2022
Oregon Releases Final Rules on Heat Illness Prevention and Wildfire Smoke Exposure
Source: Arthur G. Sapper, Ogletree Deakins
Oregon OSHA’s final rule on the prevention of heat illness will be effective on June 15, 2022. The new rule will likely be important outside Oregon because the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) may look to it to draft a federal rule.
Trailblazing Labor Contracts End U.S. Women’s Soccer Players’ Equal Pay Lawsuit
Source: Patrick L. Egan , JacksonLewis
The U.S. Soccer Federation...and the unions representing the women’s and men’s national soccer teams...reached a pair of collective bargaining agreements with identical economic terms. For the first time, equal pay to the players of each team will be provided.
May 19, 2022
Owner of Brandon Denny’s to Pay $45,000 to Settle EEOC National Origin Harassment Lawsuit
Source: EEOC, EEOC
RREMC, LLC, doing business as Denny’s Restaurant, a Florida-based company and the third-largest Denny’s franchisee in the United States, has agreed to pay $45,000 to settle a national origin discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today.
Just A Helping Hand? The Potential Pitfalls of Hiring Unpaid Summer Interns
Source: Brittany N. Clark, Nexsen Pruet
Employers need to be on alert, however, as even those seeking “unpaid” internships may qualify as “employees” under federal law, and thus be entitled to minimum wage and overtime pay.
Crypto, SDBAs, and Your 401(k) Plan: What Now?
Source: Kellie M. Thomas, JacksonLewis
Just over a month ago, we wrote about the Department of Labor’s guidance on cryptocurrency as a 401(k) investment option, and the landscape has already shifted multiple times.
May 17, 2022
New Georgia Employment Laws Change Definition of Employment, Restrict Local Laws Regulating Work Hours
Source: Justin R. Barnes, JacksonLewis
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has signed into law two measures addressing the employment relationship. The first, Act 809 (H.B. 389), alters the definition of employment for purposes of unemployment benefits. The second, Act 823 (S.B. 331), precludes local governments from regulating the scheduling or work hours of a private business’s employees.
Chicago Adopts New Sexual Harassment Prevention Obligations for Employers
Source: Nadine C. Abrahams, JacksonLewis
The Chicago City Council has created new employer obligations to provide training to employees and supervisors on sexual harassment prevention and how bystanders should respond to sexual harassment.
Transferring Talent from Facilities Abroad as Option for Skilled Workers for Manufacturing Companies
Source: Nicola Ai Ling Prall, JacksonLewis
Using treaty of commerce and navigation visas as a possible option for manufacturing companies searching for talent is a great way for manufacturing companies to explore. Companies with affiliates abroad have another option: the L-1 visa.
More Diverse Associates Hired at Law Firms, But Partnership, Leadership Remain Mainly White and Male
Source: Patrick Smith, Law.com
The latest ABA diversity survey results showed troubling trends leading up to the pandemic.
May 16, 2022
Dealing With Undocumented Workers In ERISA Plans
Source: Raymond P. Turner , JacksonLewis
Whether because of the tight U.S. labor market or flawed onboarding processes, many undocumented workers are becoming participants and accruing benefits in ERISA-governed employee benefit plans.
California Minimum Wage Will Go to $15.50 in 2023 . . . and Could Go Higher
Source: Mark S. Spring, CDF Labor Law
Thursday, the California Department of Finance said it projects inflation for the 2022 fiscal year — which ends June 30 — will be 7.6% higher than the year before, triggering the minimum wage increase.
EEOC, DOJ Warn Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions Might Violate ADA
Source: Jennifer G. Betts, Ogletree Deakins
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), on May 12, 2022, issued guidance advising employers that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic decision-making processes to make employment decisions could result in unlawful discrimination against applicants and employees with disabilities.
May 13, 2022
U.S. House panel weighs labor law amendment to protect workers from wage theft
Source: Ariana Figueroa, New Jersey Monitor
U.S. House lawmakers questioned several labor experts Wednesday before a House Education and Labor panel about how a new bill to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 would protect workers from wage theft.
U.S. labor board says Starbucks unlawfully fired seven for union efforts
Source: David Shepardson, Reuters
The U.S. National Labor Relations Board has asked a court to order the reinstatement of seven former Starbucks Corp employees in Memphis, Tennessee who it said were unlawfully fired for exercising their right to form a union.
Modernization of Manufacturers: Safety and Cybersecurity Issues
Source: Jason C. Gavejian, JacksonLewis
Many factories seek more agility from artificial intelligence and other automated processes to better manage disruptions and uncertainty. With these modernizations comes the threat of potential safety and health hazards and cyber threats.
"10 Tips for Great Client Intake"
Source: PracticePanther, Law.com
Watch this short, 30-minute webinar and learn 10 tips to improve your client intake experience and grow your firm.
May 12, 2022
3 disabled workers share how ‘returning to normal’ makes work inaccessible
Source: Kelly Dawson, Fast Company
One in four Americans has a disability. So employers risk losing out if they don’t consider how a return to office affects disabled workers.
EEOC Union Decries Agency’s Unilateral Decision to Return to Office
Source: Erich Wagner, Government Executive
The American Federation of Government Employees Council 216 has filed an unfair labor practice complaint, alleging the agency bypassed ongoing negotiations over the return to traditional work sites and engaging in “surface-level” bargaining.
Are your employee leave policies compliant with state and federal laws?
Source: Deborah Hanus, Benefits Pro
Here are just a few key issues that people leaders should be aware of, not only to remain compliant, but also to make employee leave more stress-free.
May 11, 2022
The Great Resignation has changed the workplace for good. ‘We’re not going back,’ says the expert who coined the term
Source: Michelle Fox, CNBC
There’s no turning back from the workplace changes brought about by the Great Resignation, according to the expert who coined the term.
RCC Partners to Pay $30,000 to Settle EEOC Disability Discrimination Lawsuit
Source: EEOC, EEOC
Subway Franchise Failed to Accommodate an Autistic Worker and Then Fired Him Because of His Disability, Federal Agency Charges
Delivery Workers Are the Next Frontier of Labor Organizing
Source: Lisa Held , Eater
Gig worker collectives across the country have successfully argued for more worker protections and in some cases, have prevented pay cuts. What many want next is the ability to form a proper union.
May 10, 2022
How to Ask for Feedback from an Interviewer
Source: Marlo Lyons, Harvard Business Review
Whether you’re just getting started interviewing for new roles or you’ve been interviewing but haven’t landed a new job, consider asking for feedback during or even after the process.
A Very Unhappy Birthday: Lessons on Employee Anxiety
Source: Bridget A. Blinn-Spears, Nexsen Pruet
A Kentucky jury recently awarded Kevin Berling $450,000 for disability discrimination because his employer ignored his request not to celebrate his birthday and subsequently terminated his employment.
Manufacturers Face Unique Problems in Accommodating Assembly Line Workers With Disabilities
Source: James M. Stone, JacksonLewis
As manufacturers rebound from the disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and begin putting more employees back to work, they should be prepared for a corresponding increase in requests for accommodation from assembly line workers.
May 9, 2022
NLRB stretches its wings under Biden's appointees
Source: Nick Niedzwiadek , Politico
President Joe Biden has actively shaped his administration to be as supportive of organized labor as any of recent vintage — and lately, he’s stepped up his public embrace of unions.
Workers are returning to the office — and finding it has its charms
Source: Virginia Backaitis, New York Post
According to Jim Clifton, CEO of pollster Gallup, the majority of workers want to return at least some of the time. The reason? To collaborate, socialize and make important decisions alongside co-workers.
DHS Has Temporarily Increased Automatic Extensions of Employment Authorization and/or Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
Source: Shin-I Lowe, Littler
Due to severe backlogs with adjudication exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, on May 4, 2022, DHS published a rule to temporarily increase the automatic extension period from up to 180 days to up to 540 days.
May 6, 2022
Negotiating Lower Hospital Prices as a Self-Insured Employer
Source: Keith Marzilli Ericson, Harvard Business Review
Until now, it has been difficult, if not impossible, for self-insured U.S. employers to find out the rates that insurers have negotiated with hospitals. That is changing, thanks federal disclosure rules.
Littler Survey: Competitive Talent Market and Pandemic Uncertainty Complicate Return-to-Office Policies
Source: Littler, Littler
Tenth annual survey of nearly 1,300 executives finds U.S. employers split on vaccine mandates, but aligned on reopening offices and benefits of flexible work models
Cal/OSHA’s Third Revision to COVID-19 ETS to Be Approved by May 6, 2022
Source: Karen F. Tynan, Ogletree Deakins
The California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board recently voted to adopt the proposed revisions to California’s COVID-19 emergency temporary standards (ETS).
May 5, 2022
Want a Four-Day Workweek? It May Be Tough to Find One
Source: Matthew Boyle, Bloomberg
Everyone’s talking about the four-day workweek. So far, at least, hardly anyone’s actually doing it.
DHS Extends I-9 Compliance Flexibility
Source: Mark Wu, Ogletree Deakins
On April 25, 2022, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency announced an extension of compliance flexibility related to Form I-9 employment eligibility verification requirements until October 31, 2022.
These companies are assuring workers they'll help them access abortions
Source: Joe Hernandez, NPR
Levi's is one of the latest private firms to assure workers living in states with abortion restrictions or bans that it would help them cover the cost of traveling out of state to seek reproductive health care.
May 4, 2022
Apple Store workers in Maryland begin union drive
Source: Jessica Bursztynsky, CNBC
Workers at an Apple store in Maryland are taking steps to unionize. It’s the third store to effort a campaign, setting up a potential labor battle with Apple.
The workforce of the future, according to Top 100 HR Tech Influencers
Source: Phil Albinus, Human Resources Executive
The basic structure of work is poised to change thanks to the fallout from COVID-19, particularly the remote and hybrid work models that were implemented over the last two years and the Great Resignation that became a reality last summer. Finding success in this new world comes down to flexibility and agility.
NFL wants to move Brian Flores' discrimination case to arbitration
Source: Aaron Katersky, ABC News
Flores sued the NFL alleging systemic race discrimination within the NFL in hiring practices, termination practices and the terms and conditions of employment. He wants the case to remain in federal court and pushed for discovery so he can view relevant material held by the league.
May 3, 2022
Biden administration temporarily extending window for expired work permits amid backlog
Source: Nick Niedzwiadek, Politico
Immigrant workers will be able to continue to use their existing work permits for nearly 18 months after they expire, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The reprieve is scheduled to go into effect Wednesday, May 3rd.
The Alito Leak and the SCOTUS Ethic of Confidentiality
Source: Tony Mauro, National Law Journal
The stunning leak of a draft Supreme Court opinion shakes the foundation of the court’s ethic of confidentiality and discretion. When law clerks begin their term, they get a lecture from the chief justice or other officials, emphasizing that confidentiality is paramount. So, what happened with the Alito leak?
The Gig Economy Opportunity: Let’s Get Women Back Into The Workplace Post-Pandemic
Source: Camille Fetter, Forbes
Organizations are starting to build flexible workforces and diverse teams as employees are rethinking what job fulfillment means. For women who previously lacked fulfillment, the gig economy offers opportunity and flexibility.
May 2, 2022
The Investigation Report: How to Write It, Who Gets a Copy, and Why to Keep it Confidential
Source: Jen Shaw, Workplace Wake-Up
Are you interested in learning more about investigation reports? This podcast provides insights into how to draft investigation reports and what to do with them after the investigation is over.
Congress Passes Bill Toughening Financial Disclosure Requirements for Judges
Source: Avalon Zoppo, National Law Journal
The Courthouse Ethics Transparency Act, which passed the House of Representatives on April 27, would make Article III judges abide by the same financial disclosure rules as other branches of the federal government. The bill now heads to President Biden.
I-9 flexibility is extended until October 31, 2022, due to continuing COVID-19 precautions.
Source: N/A, U.S. Immigration & Customs Website
On March 20, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it would exercise prosecutorial discretion to defer the physical presence requirements of the Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) for remote workplaces. DHS has extended I-9 flexibilities until October 31, 2022.
April 28, 2022
Let’s Treat Wage Theft Like the Crime it is
Source: Simon Trautmann, MinnPost
But in Minnesota, a recent study found that 23% of construction workers suffer some form of wage theft. That’s tens of thousands of workers robbed immediately upon giving their labor to employers.
‘Worker injuries and deaths are still far too common’: Americans are still dying from injuries on the job — but some workers are more impacted than others
Source: Emma Ockerman, MarketWatch
Nearly 5,000 laborers died on the job in 2020, according to a new report from the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), with Latino and Black workers having the highest fatality rates.
Sacramento County Employees Threaten Strike Over Better Pay, Working Conditions
Source: Luke Cleary, ABC 10
The union representing the 3,500 Sacramento County employees are threatening a strike with the county if they cannot reach an agreement on a new contract. This would be the first time the United Public Employees (UPE) union has striked in over a decade.
April 26, 2022
Keeping Aging Workers Safe on the Job
Source: Kevin Druley, Safety + Health Magazine
“The aging workforce is something that’s going to be with us for some time,” said Jim Grosch, a research psychologist and co-director of the NIOSH National Center for Productive Aging and Work. Identifying and reducing the risks that many older workers face – especially those who perform hands-on labor – can help employers retain their experience and keep them injury-free.
Union Mental Health Workers Strike for Better Conditions at Nonprofit in New London
Source: NBC CT
Union mental health workers who are employed by Sound Community Services started a three-day strike at 6 a.m. on Sunday. They are asking for better conditions at a mental healthcare non-profit in New London.
Thousands of Nurses at Stanford Hospitals are Striking Over Wages and Mental Health
Source: Jonathan Franklin, NPR
This article discusses a strike by over 5,000 nurses at Stanford Health Care and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.
April 21, 2022
S&C Electric Company to Pay $315,000 to Settle EEOC Disability Discrimination Lawsuit
Source: EEOC
"S&C Electric Company, a designer and manufacturer of switching and control products for power transmission and distribution headquartered in Chicago, will pay $315,000 and furnish other relief to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today."
April 18, 2022
Statewide Paid Family Leave Set to Become Law in Delaware, as General Assembly Passes Bill
Source: Meredith Newman , Delaware Online
Delaware will join 10 states and the District of Columbia in offering similar statewide family and medical leave policies.
Local 32BJ Building Workers Strike Could Impact 3,000 Buildings and 500,000 Apartments in New York City
Source: Alice Gainer, CBS New York
"The union representing doorpersons, supers and other building workers have voted to go on strike soon, if need be. Their contract expires next week, and they're asking for a pay increase, among other things."
Etsy Sellers Eye Forming a Union After Going on Strike
Source: Annie Palmer, CNBC
Etsy sellers are on a weeklong strike after increases in transaction fees and other changes that impact sellers. Specifically, Etsy hiked their transaction fees by 30 percent. Kristi Cassidy, a lead organizer of the strike, expressed concerns over Reddit, which led to thousands of sellers putting their pages on "vacation mode" to protest the changes Etsy is making.
April 14, 2022
Union Election Petitions Increase 57% In First Half of Fiscal Year 2022
Source: National Labor Relations Board
"During the first six months of Fiscal Year 2022 (October 1–March 31), union representation petitions filed at the NLRB have increased 57%—up to 1,174 from 748 during the first half of FY2021. At the same time, unfair labor practice charges have increased 14%—from 7,255 to 8,254."
Indiana University Graduate Workers Are on Strike and Demanding Union Recognition
Source: Cole Nelson, Jacobin
"Indiana University graduate workers began an unusual recognition strike today in hopes of compelling the school’s administration to recognize their union. Jacobin spoke with one of the strikers about how this came about and what happens next."
April 12, 2022
Amazon Warehouse Workers Suffer Serious Injuries at Twice the Rate of Rivals, study finds
Source: Annie Palmer, CNBC
According to a new study, Amazon warehouse workers in the U.S. suffered injuries at twice the rate of rival companies in 2021. There are other findings, like there being 6.8 serious injuries for every 100 Amazon warehouse workers.
Graduate Workers Opened Virtual Poll Sunday for Vote to Authorize Strike
Source: Hali Tauxe, Indiana Daily Student
The Indiana Graduate Workers Coalition-United Electrical Workers voted on Sunday afternoon for strike authorization. They are seeking union recognition from the university to represent graduate workers in a collective bargaining agreement with the administration, as the article states.
Kansas City-area Painters, Allied Trades Union Members Strike Tuesday
Source: Katelyn Brown, KSHB Kansas City
Members of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 2012 are striking on Tuesday. They are going on strike for a number of reasons, mainly for better pay.
April 11, 2022
Maryland's Paid Family Leave Program Passes Despite Governor Hogan's Veto
Source: Sierra Hunter, WMAR Baltimore
Maryland recently passed a paid family leave program, and did so despite the Governor's veto. The bill was passed with overriding votes of 30-16 in the Senate and 94-44 in the House. The paid leave program, also known as The Time to Care Act, will create an insurance program that will allow employees to take up to 12 weeks of partially paid leave to deal with family matters such as the birth of a child, caring for an unwell loved one, or dealing with a military deployment.
Illinois Lawmakers Pass a Bill They Say Will Help Prevent Wage Theft
Source: Andrew Hensel, The Center Square Illinois
"House Bill 5412 was introduced by state Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin. She said the measure would help workers collect wages from subcontractors that have not been able to pay. If a subcontractor fails to pay an employee, HB5412 states that an employee can file a legal claim with the general contractor for any unpaid wages and benefits. The measure exempts unionized contractors from being impacted by the wage theft provisions."
Howard University Hospital workers kick off one-day strike
Source: Matthew Delaney , WTOPNews
Howard University Hospital workers in D.C. began their one day strike. They are striking to address staffing challenges and low wages. There are over 300 nurses, pharmacists, dieticians and social workers.
April 7, 2022
Cassone Leasing to Pay $85,000 to Settle EEOC Pregnancy Discrimination Case
Source: EEOC
According to the EEOC’s lawsuit, Cassone summarily dismissed an employee upon learning that she was pregnant...Despite an "Excellent" rating for her 30-day review, Cassone fired her on May 14, 2018 – one week after a pregnancy-related absence and less than one week after she disclosed her pregnancy to human resources. The following day, Cassone replaced her with a non-pregnant employee. The company will pay $85,000 to settle the pregnancy discrimination suit brought by the EEOC.
Leadership Support is a Must for Small Businesses that Make Total Worker Health Part of Their Strategy: NIOSH
Source: Safety + Health Magazine
This article discusses a NIOSH report emphasizing that "small organizations that make Total Worker Health part of their business strategy – and have leaders who support it – are “poised to advance the well-being of their workers." Total Worker Health is described by NIOSH as policies, programs, and practices that incorporate protection from work-related safety and health hazards with the promotion of injury and illness-prevention efforts to advance employee well-being.
Recognizing AFSCME Library Workers
Source: AFSCME Staff, ASFCME
"Over the past several years, that work has been threatened by library boards of trustees and administrations setting out to reduce library staff levels, slash budgets and perpetuate discrimination in the workplace. AFSCME library workers have held their library administrations accountable to the community by stepping up to advocate for themselves and their communities when library administrations choose to go down the wrong path."
April 5, 2022
Subcontractors on Major Virginia Construction Projects Settle Wage Theft Lawsuit
Source: Dean Mirshani, ABC 8 News
"A lawsuit filed by two workers in December 2020 accused the Richmond-based drywall company Capital Interior Contractors and two subcontractors it hired as labor brokers, Richmond Drywall Installers Constructors Inc. (RDIC) and GTO Drywall LLC (GTO), of violating the federal Fair Labor Standards Act by not paying them overtime wages they earned."
Heart of Cardon to Pay $115,000 to Settle EEOC Disability Discrimination Lawsuit
Source: EEOC
This EEOC press release discusses a senior living community that refused to accommodate a qualified employee with a disability. The living community will pay $115,000 to settle the lawsuit. "Such alleged conduct violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits employers from failing to consider reasonable accommodations for employees with a disability."
A 30-hour Bargaining Marathon: How a Tentative Deal Averted a Major Grocery Workers Strike
Source: Margot Roosevelt, Los Angeles Times
The contract, tentatively signed by the union representing 47,000 Southern California grocery workers, will be put to a vote next week by members of UFCW.
April 4, 2022
In Historic Win, Amazon Workers in New York City Vote to Unionize
Source: AFSCME Staff, AFSCME
Amazon workers at the Staten Island warehouse voted on Friday to unionize. They are the first group of Amazon workers to successfully form their own union.
Burnout Can Impact Workers from Head to Toe
Source: Kevan Orvitz, Occupational Health & Safety
Analyzing the tasks of each worker can help management identify ergonomic hazards experienced in their workforce. For example, force is a common ergonomic hazard.
Several Hundred Howard University Hospital Workers Plan To Strike This Month
Source: Amanda Michelle Gomez, DCist
"The labor union for over 300 nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, and social workers at Howard University Hospital and the Student Health Center has announced plans to strike later this month." There have been accusations of unfair labor practices. The one-day strike is scheduled for Monday, April 11.
March 31, 2022
NYC Commission on Human Rights Guidance on Posting Salary Ranges
Source: Lisa Dayan and Roy Salins , JD Spura
This article highlights the NYC law on salary transparency that is set to go into effect Mary 15, 2022. This law would "require that employers disclose a salary range for positions in all job postings." The second portion of this article is a guidance on the law by the NYC Commission on Human Rights, and some of the questions that the guidance answers.
OSHA Proposes Reinstating Electronic Filing Rules
Source: Guy Burdick, EHS Daily Advisor
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is proposing to reinstate requirements for electronic submission of injury and illness logs and incident reports.
House Passes Statewide Paid Leave Program
Source: Elizabeth Shwe , Maryland Matters
This article discusses the Time to Care Act passed in the Maryland House. Sponsored by Sen. Antonio Hayes and Sen Benson, this bill would offer 12 weeks of partially paid family leave each year, and up to 24 weeks of paid leave for new parents. If this bill becomes law, Maryland would join nine other states and the District of Columbia, all that have paid leave laws.
March 30, 2022
Cincinnati Bank Raises Minimum Wage to $18 an Hour for All Employees
Source: WLWT Digital Staff, WLWT 5
First Financial Bank, with its headquarters in Cincinnati, is raising their employee minimum wage to $18 an hour.
President’s FY2023 Budget includes $14.6 billion for Department of Labor
Source: Alex Saurman, Occupational Health & Safety
This article highlights a press release describing the FY2023 budget by the Biden-Harris Administration. This budget outlines $14.6 billion for the Department of Labor. The budget would be directed toward numerous things, one being worker mental health.
EEOC Sues Carolina Title Loans / Community Loans of America for Race Harassment and Disability Discrimination
Source: EEOC
Georgia-based Community Loans of America, Inc. and its subsidiary, Carolina Title Loans, Inc., violated federal law by subjecting an employee to a racially hostile work environment, by failing to accommodate her disability, and by firing her because of that disability.
March 29, 2022
Unanimous Vote Lifts Wage Theft Bill Supporters
Source: Colin A. Young, WWLP 22 News
All 17 members of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development voted unanimously to give a favorable report to the committee’s redrafted version of wage theft bills (H 1959 / S 1179).The redrafted version of legislation to provide the attorney general’s office with the ability to file directly in court to pursue wage and hour violations on behalf of workers — and to collect damages and attorney’s fees when those workers prevail in court — was sent to the House for additional consideration.
Union Strike: AFSCME Local 1110 votes to authorize strike against ISU
Source: Jack Alkire, Vidette Online
The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 1110 voted Friday to authorize a strike against Illinois State University. The workers are demanding fair wages and better working conditions. Union officials announced the final tally of the vote: 96% Yeas and 4% Nays.
Red Cross Workers Threaten to Strike, Seeking Fair Contracts
Source: WGME, WGME 13
This article discusses a Teamsters local in Portland giving the Red Cross a ten day notice to strike. There was a rally held to bring attention to the working conditions.
March 28, 2022
Pennsylvania to Raise Tip Threshold for Tipped Minimum Wage
Source: WGAL 8
In Pennsylvania, employers can now only pay employees less than the minimum wage if the worker is earning at least $135 a month in tips. These changes could be taking effect in the coming months.
House Passes Warehouse Distribution Center Worker Safety Bill
Source: Brian Hall, Minnesota Legislature
The Minnesota House passed a bill that would address workhouse worker health and safety. HF2774 would establish worker safety requirements for warehouse distribution centers. It would apply to employers with 250 or more employees at one warehouse distribution center or 1,000 or more employees at one or more warehouses distribution centers in the state.
California Grocery Workers Vote to Authorize Strike
Source: The Associated Press, NPR
Southern California grocery workers have voted to authorize a strike against major supermarket chains like Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions. "No strike was immediately set. The union said talks would resume Wednesday and if bargaining breaks down again, it would decide what steps to take next."
March 24, 2022
Washington Amazon Center Fined for Unsafe Work Practices
Source: Alex Saurman, Occupational Health & Safety
According to a press release, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) found that Amazon workers are required to perform repetitive and physically-demanding tasks at a fast pace, putting them at risk for back, shoulder, wrist, and knee injuries.
Sacramento Teachers Union: Strike Enters Second Day After No Agreement with District
Source: Eytan Wallace, Katelyn Stark, Fox40
Sacramento teachers are entering the second day of the strike to make their voices heard by the district. "SCTA and SEIU Local 1021 are demanding SCUSD agree to a contract that removes proposed changes to employee health care plans, provides wage increases to account for inflation, and includes a proposal to resolve staff shortages."
March 23, 2022
Howard University and Faculty Reach a Tentative Labor Deal, Ending Strike Threat
Source: Deepa Shivaram, NPR
"Howard University administrators and the union that represents faculty members have reached a tentative three-year agreement to negotiate fairer working conditions, averting a strike."
March 22, 2022
US Department of Labor Recovers $108K in Back Wages, Damages for 21 Goose Creek Restaurant Workers After Finding Child Labor, Pay Violations
Source: US Department of Labor
In a US DOL investigation, a Goose Creek restaurant was found with pay violations for 21 workers and allowing minors to work more hours than the law permits. The DOL recovered $108,924 in back wages and liquidated damages.
US Department of Labor Cited Massachusetts Manufacturer for Safety Violations After Hot Liquid Plastic Burns Worker
Source: US Department of Labor
An investigation by the DOL found that a plastic packaging manufacturer could have preventing a worker from being severely burned, had they complied with OSHA requirements. This manufacturer has a history of workplace safety and health inspections. "OSHA cited Berry Global Inc. for two willful violations and one repeat violation and has proposed $369,815 in penalties."
Howard Faculty Hold Rally And Threaten Strike If Union Negotiations Fail
Source: Chanel Cain, The Seattle Medium
This article highlights a rally held by Howard faculty and students to bring attention to labor issues faced by workers. "Part-time and non-tenured full-time faculty members plan to strike next week if their union is unable to reach an agreement today with the university."
March 21, 2022
Chevron Pulls Union Workers from California Refinery Ahead of Strike
Source: Gary McWilliams and Erwin Serba , Reuters
According to this article, more than 500 workers were replaced by non-union workers at the Chevron Corp oil refinery in San Francisco. This is ahead of the first strike at the plant in more than 40 years. "The USW local has asked for a 5% pay increase above that agreed last month by its peers because of the higher cost of living in the San Francisco Bay Area. It also wants the company to add staffing to reduce the 60-70 hours that union members must sometimes work, White said."
March 17, 2022
Bill Would Expand Protections for Domestic Workers in DC
Source: Clara Garcia , NBC 4 Washington
The D.C. Council has introduced a new bill that would expand protections for domestic workers. Specifically, it would protect them from discrimination, wage theft, and exploitative workloads and schedules.
NJDOL Issues Stop-Work Orders to Three Contractors as Multi-Agency Investigation Continues
Source: NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) recently issued stop-work orders to three contractors performing construction work at 88 Regent Street in Jersey City, where last summer a multi-agency team of more than 60 investigators conducted an unannounced investigation in response to allegations of worker misclassification.
Electricians Union Calls Strike at WTTW
Source: David Roeder, Chicago Sun Times
Since the public television station WTTW-Channel 11 proposed harmful changes in work jurisdictions and job protections, electricians called a strike. Local 1220 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers began their strike on 6 PM Wednesday night. "The local said this is the first strike it has called against WTTW, where it has had labor deals since the mid-1950s."
March 15, 2022
US Department of Labor Will Offer Prevailing Wage Compliance Seminars For Federal Contractors, Contracting Agencies, Unions, Workers
Source: US Department of Labor
In efforts to increase awareness and improve compliance with federal prevailing wage requirements, the US Department of Labor will offer online compliance seminars for contracting agencies, contractors, unions, workers and other stakeholders to provide information on the requirements governing payment of prevailing wages on federally funded construction and service contracts.
Long Hours, Dangerous Chemicals: Nail Salon Workers Fight for Industry Change
Source: Michael Sainato, The Guardian
This article broadly discusses the nail industry, how it was impacted during COVID-19, and the issues workers face in this area. Further, the article talks about, despite having won a victory in 2019 with the $15 minimum wage law, employers are either not following the law or 'have found other ways to cut corners at the expense of workers.' Thus, organizers are working to push for legislation in the NY senate to create a nail salon industry council, which would establish workplace standards throughout the industry in the state.
Stevens Transport Settles EEOC Disability Discrimination Suit
Source: EEOC
The largest refrigerated trucking company refused to hire a candidate after the company found out the candidate took medical leave at a previous job.
March 14, 2022
Grocery Workers Authorize Strike Vote Against SoCal Supermarkets as Contract Negotiations Stall
Source: City News Service , ABC 7
Grocery store workers said on Thursday that they had authorized a strike vote since contract negotiations stalled with the companies.
Largest Federal Employee Union Calls for Action to Address Dangerously Understaffed FCC Florence
Source: American Federation of Government Employees
"The American Federation of Government Employees is urging action on a request by union members at Federal Correctional Complex Florence, south of Colorado Springs, Colo., to address unsafe working conditions stemming from the chronic understaffing of the federal prison complex."
EEOC Releases Information about Employment Discrimination Against Caregivers
Source: EEOC
he U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today released a technical assistance document, “The COVID-19 Pandemic and Caregiver Discrimination Under Federal Employment Discrimination Law,” and an update to its COVID-19 “What You Should Know” explaining discrimination against employees and job seekers with family caregiving responsibilities.
March 11, 2022
EEOC Sues Chipotle for Sexual Harassment, Constructive Discharge
Source: EEOC
In a lawsuit filed by the EEOC, Chipotle Services LLC and Chipotle Mexican Grill violated federal law by 'subjecting young female employees to egregious and ongoing sexual harassment from October 2019 to June 2020, severe enough to force two employees to leave their jobs.' The EEOC states that the conduct exhibited violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Public Defenders Strike Authorized by Employees, Union: Countdown Begins
Source: Nick Longworth, Fox 9
The Minnesota Board of Public Defense employees who are members of Teamsters Local 320 recently rejected the last contact offer. "Filing their intent to strike today with state of MN bureau of mediation services, it will begin a 10–day period during which both parties will bargain again during facilitated mediations."
March 9, 2022
Dozens rally at state Capitol calling for raise in minimum wage to $18 an hour
Source: HNN Staff , Hawaii News Now
Dozens rallied at the state capitol in Hawaii to push for a minimum wage increase to $18 an hour. This rally was organized by Raise Up Hawaii. "'Workers have just been through so much the last few years that we’ve seen that they deserve so much more in terms of pay,' said Dane Nakagawa, who participated in the rally. 'So, I’m out here because workers at this point need more pay. That’s the bottom line.'"
US Department of Labor Investigation Finds $37K in Back Overtime Wages, Damages for 34 Employees at 18 Indiana Credit Union Locations
Source: US Department of Labor
A Goshen-based credit union failed to pay 34 mortgage loan advisors and mortgage loan originators the full overtime wages they were due. In the investigation they were found in violation of overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act. "The FLSA requires that most employees in the U.S. be paid at least the federal minimum wage for all hours worked and overtime pay at not less than time and one-half the regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 40 hours in a workweek."
Health Aides Wanted Billions in Unpaid Wages. They Only Got $30 Million and Now They’re Fighting for More
Source: Rommel H. Ojeda, Documented
This article discusses the protest by home health aides in Chinatown. They were there protesting to decry the recent settlement "$30 million between 42 agencies and 120,000 workers represented by the largest healthcare union in the nation, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East."
March 8, 2022
Starbucks Fires Another Union Leader as Fight With Workers Intensifies
Source: Khaleda Rahman, Newsweek
Another Starbucks employee, Daniel Rojas, who was leading unionization efforts in Buffalo, New York, has been reportedly fired. Rojas was terminated for "violating time and attendance policies that are selectively enforced.'
Unemployed Workers Union Squares Off With Maryland Department Of Labor
Source: Cristina Mendez, CBS Baltimore
The Unemployed Workers Union (UWU) is pushing the circuit court to get claims of unpaid benefits out to Marylanders. They filed a lawsuit against the Maryland Department of Labor, and they want the circuit court to review the agency's handling of unpaid benefits.
Uber, Lyft and Others Launch Campaign to Head Off Unions
Source: Brody Mullins and Ryan Tracy, The Wall Street Journal
App based companies like Uber Inc. and Lyft are investing in an ad campaign to steer away Democratic efforts which would classify workers as employees.
March 7, 2022
Union members vote down second contract, Eaton to hire replacements
Source: Montse Ricossa , KWQC
This article discusses the second contract voted down by IAMAW Local 388 and Local Lodge 1191 by a 97% vote. Negotiations are not to resume until March 14th.
AFSCME members protect collective bargaining in Virginia
Source: Namita Waghray, AFSCME
This article highlights union members from AFSCME in Virginia who fought to protect collective bargaining rights in the general assembly session.
March 4, 2022
Saint Clare’s Health to Pay $77,550 to Settle EEOC Disability Discrimination Lawsuit
Source: EEOC
To settle a disability discrimination lawsuit filed by the EEOC, Saint Clare's Health will pay $77,550. Saint Clare's withdrew an offer from a hired pregnant candidate who was diagnosed and hospitalized with preeclampsia. Details are further expressed in the news release.
Restaurant Workers Call on Lawmakers to Raise Minimum Wage for Tipped Workers to $15 an Hour
Source: News12 Staff, News 12 Bronx
Restaurant workers are pushing lawmakers to raise the minimum wage for tipped workers to $15 an hour. This article highlights specific worker perspectives and which lawmakers the workers are lobbying.
The Hows, Whys, and Whats of ULP Strikes
Source: Robert M. Schwartz, Labor Notes
This article outlines ways for a union to deter employers from carrying out a permanent replacement strategy.
March 3, 2022
New Protections for Domestic Workers Under NYC Human Rights Law Take Effect March 12
Source: SÍLE MOLONEY, Norwood News
This article highlights frequently asked questions about the new protections for domestic workers under NYC Human Rights Law, which take effect March 12. These protections will apply to all domestic workers, "including nannies, home care workers, housecleaners, and any other worker who is employed in a home providing childcare, eldercare, companionship, or housekeeping services in New York City. Most full-time and part-time workers are covered."
Court Holds Sherwood Food Distributors in Contempt for Violation of EEOC Consent Decree in Class Sex Discrimination Case
Source: EEOC
A federal judge held Sherwood Food Distributors in contempt "for failing to pay its payroll tax liability in violation of the consent decree previously entered by the court to resolve the EEOC’s class sex discrimination suit against the company."
Amazon Fresh union in Seattle delivers demands, threatens strike
Source: Joshua McNichols, KUOW
The Amazon Fresh union in Seattle has delivered a list of demands which includes longer paid breaks, flexible schedules, wages starting at $25 an hour, chairs for cashiers, the right to wear Black Lives Matter pins, and the right to take home expired food. If these demands are not met, the workers are prepared to go on strike.
March 2, 2022
Detroit Baristas File Unfair Labor Practice Charges Against Great Lakes Coffee
Source: Lindsay Moore, MLive
Striking employees at the Detroit Great Lakes Coffee have filed unfair labor practice charges against the coffee shop. The newly formed union of baristas is represented by UNITED HERE Local 24. "The 20 striking employees are claiming that owners Greg and Lisa Miracle are refusing to recognize and engage in “good faith collective bargaining.”
Target is Raising its Minimum Wage to as Much as $24 an Hour
Source: Rina Torchinsky, NPR
Target currently pays $15 an hour, but this past Monday announced an increase to $24. Additional benefits include expanded employee access to healthcare, says the company. For example, "the company is also bolstering most health plans to include virtual physical therapy and acupuncture at no cost, along with more fertility benefits."
California Workers Face Years-Long Waits for Justice in Wage Theft Cases, State Data Shows
Source: Farida Jhabvala Romero, KQED
According to new data obtained by KQED, California workers are waiting years for a hearing with the state watchdog agency to investigate wage theft. For example, "in 2015, California workers waited 220 days on average for a hearing. That figure had nearly doubled to 417 days by 2019, and jumped again to an estimated 812 days as of last month."
February 28, 2022
Fordham University Graduate Workers Are Unionizing
Source: Alex N. Press, Jacobin
The graduate workers at Fordham University are organizing with the Communications Workers of America (CWA), and have filed for a NLRB election if Fordham refuses to voluntarily recognize the union. Demands include: pay raises, greater legal protection and financial support for international graduate workers, affordable and expanded health insurance, "and the creation of formal grievance structures that ensure effective protection and recourse against harassment, overwork, and other workplace issues."
Traffic Control Company Pays $224K in Back Wages, Damages After Investigation Finds Pay Practice Violations in Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania
Source: US Department of Labor
In an investigation by a DOL District office, investigators found that a traffic control company failed to pay employees for time spent performing pre-and-post shift tasks, which resulted in overtime violations. The company, being in violation of the FLSA, paid $112,187 in back wages "and an equal amount in liquidated damages to 297 non-exempt employees in Virginia, North Carolina and Pennsylvania."
