California has enacted a law empowering its labor board to regulate working conditions and union rights amid federal inaction, but the law faces legal challenges from the Trump administration and the NLRB, which argue it oversteps federal authority. Experts believe courts are unlikely to uphold the law due to preemption, potentially leaving workers without effective union protections if the law is overturned.
Starbucks employees in multiple states have filed lawsuits against the company, claiming that the new dress code requires them to purchase clothing at their own expense without reimbursement, violating labor laws. The employees also allege issues with unreimbursed phone and vehicle expenses. Starbucks defends its policies, citing low turnover and high employee satisfaction.
California's legislative session concluded with significant Democratic wins on climate, housing, and labor, despite last-minute deals and frustrations over process and unresolved issues like property tax caps and environmental reviews. Key measures include climate and energy policies, housing near transit, union rights for gig workers, and funding for local news, with ongoing debates on antisemitism and AI oversight.
Union leaders representing 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants are prepared to face jail rather than comply with a government-ordered return to work, as the strike over wages continues amidst government-imposed arbitration and legal battles, significantly disrupting flights and costing the airline millions.
Nobel laureate economist Claudia Goldin has joined the WNBA Players' Association as an advisor during their contract negotiations, bringing her expertise on women's labor economics to advocate for fair revenue sharing and equity in women's basketball, marking a significant shift in the league's approach to labor disputes.
Brazilian labor prosecutors sued Chinese carmaker BYD for allegedly involving human trafficking and slavery-like conditions at a factory in Brazil, seeking $45 million in damages and compliance with labor laws. BYD stated it is committed to human rights and is cooperating with authorities. The case follows reports of Chinese workers being brought illegally to Brazil under false promises of good working conditions.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has filed a complaint against the producers of the reality TV show "Love Is Blind," arguing that contestants should be classified as employees, which would entitle them to worker protections. This marks the first time the NLRB has taken such action regarding reality show participants. The complaint follows charges by former contestants alleging unfair labor practices, including unlawful contract provisions and poor working conditions. The case could potentially lead to significant changes in the reality TV industry, including the possibility of unionization for contestants.
A Wisconsin judge has struck down key parts of a law that limited the power of public sector unions, a significant legal decision that challenges the legacy of former Governor Scott Walker's controversial 2011 legislation. The ruling could restore collective bargaining rights to thousands of public employees in the state.
Belgium has become the first country to grant sex workers the right to formal employment contracts, providing them with labor protections such as sick leave, maternity pay, and pensions. The new law, effective from Sunday, also ensures sex workers can refuse clients and set conditions for their work. This move follows Belgium's 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work and redefine pimping laws, aiming to protect sex workers from exploitation and discrimination. However, these protections apply only to those with employment contracts, excluding self-employed sex workers and those in pornography or striptease.
Belgium has enacted a groundbreaking law granting sex workers official employment rights, including maternity leave, health insurance, and pensions, marking a global first. This legislation aims to improve the safety and working conditions for sex workers, treating their profession like any other job. While some view this as a positive step towards recognizing sex workers' rights, critics argue it could normalize exploitation. The law also imposes strict regulations on employers, potentially reducing their power over workers. This move follows protests for better labor laws during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Amazon workers in 20 countries plan to strike from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, protesting labor abuses, environmental issues, and threats to democracy. The "Make Amazon Pay" movement, organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International, demands higher wages and the right to unionize. The strike could disrupt holiday deliveries, with significant participation expected in Germany, India, France, and Bangladesh. Amazon defends its labor practices, citing competitive pay and benefits, but faces ongoing criticism and unionization efforts globally.
Amazon workers in over 20 countries, including the U.S., plan to strike between Black Friday and Cyber Monday to protest labor abuses, environmental issues, and threats to democracy, as part of the "Make Amazon Pay" campaign organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International. The strikes, supported by various unions and rights groups, aim to hold Amazon accountable and demand fair treatment and union representation for workers. Amazon has dismissed the claims, stating it provides good pay and benefits. This marks the fifth year of such strikes during the holiday shopping season.
Amazon workers across 20 countries plan to strike from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, protesting labor abuses, environmental issues, and threats to democracy. The "Make Amazon Pay" movement, organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International, demands higher wages and the right to unionize. The strike could disrupt holiday deliveries, with significant participation expected in the U.S., Germany, and other countries. Amazon defends its labor practices, citing competitive pay and benefits, but faces ongoing criticism and unionization efforts.
Amazon and SpaceX argued before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is unconstitutional, claiming it violates the separation of powers and Seventh Amendment rights. However, the judges were unconvinced by the companies' appeals, questioning the timing and basis of their filings. The NLRB's representative argued for dismissal, stating the court lacks jurisdiction. Legal experts suggest the constitutionality of the NLRB was settled long ago, making the companies' claims unlikely to succeed.
Farm workers in Washington state, like Alberto, are concerned about the increasing reliance on H-2A foreign guest workers, which they fear is displacing domestic labor. The H-2A program, which allows foreign workers to temporarily work in U.S. agriculture, has grown significantly, with Washington state seeing a doubling of certified workers over the past decade. Critics argue that the program exploits guest workers and undermines local labor, as employers may bypass domestic workers by claiming a lack of available local labor. Organizations like Familias Unidas por la Justicia and Community to Community are advocating for the rights of both domestic and H-2A workers, emphasizing the need for solidarity in the face of changing labor dynamics.
