All across the nation, labor rights are under attack. But here in California the fight continues against mega-businesses like Amazon and SpaceX that continue to fight the demise of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
California has a long history of labor unions preserving workers’ rights to organize. Currently, Assembly Bill 288, sponsored by Inglewood Assemblymember McKinnor (D), outlines a path for California when unions have disputes.
What that could mean
If signed into law, the state of California would play a new role when unions dispute issues for their workers. California would then have jurisdiction over the unions’ elections. Other issues where the state would enhance its role include resolving employer retaliation cases and other matters if or when the federal board hasn’t adequately responded.
Pushback likely to follow
Passage of the billis far from guaranteed, as companies are sure to legally challenge the premise using the grounds that the state’s bill infringes on federal laws.
Organizing rights are now governed by the National Labor Relations Act and its procedures for private-sector workers to organize, as states can only enforce their own laws. According to the current administration, however, the NLRB is unconstitutional, and the California Labor Federation’s president believes the organization needs “to be prepared.”
Are conditions illegal on your job site?
With so many changes affecting the American labor force, it behooves workers to remain aware of the changes that are on the horizon. If you face illegal discrimination in the workplace, it’s important to take action to protect your right to work in a non-hostile environment.
We can help plaintiffs build a case that could end with significant financial settlements and golden parachutes if their rights have been violated.