Entries by IRI Consultants

Labor Activity in Retail Spring 2022

The 2nd annual Labor Activity in Retail Report includes: An analysis of national and state representation petitions and elections (RC, RD, and RM) as reported by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) during 2020 and 2021
The Labor Law/Activity Update: Articles written by labor experts about relevant and timely labor issues impacting employers and the workplace

NLRB’s General Counsel Wants Mandatory Employer Meetings about Union Declared Illegal

Jennifer Abruzzo, General Counsel for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), challenges the legality of employers’ mandatory union discussion meetings, breaking a 75-year precedent. In Memorandum 22-04, issued on April 7, 2022, Abruzzo outlines her position and prepares a formal brief for the Board. The memo, while not altering existing case law, may influence the Democratic-majority Board to rule such meetings unlawful in the future. This potential ruling could lead to U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals appeals, involving constitutional and NLRA Section 8(c) issues. Abruzzo also urges the Board to ensure employers clarify the voluntary nature of attendance at such meetings, asserting that mandatory meetings infringe on employees’ Section 7 rights. A brief in a case involving Cemex and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters further illustrates this shift. Employers are advised to reassess labor readiness, enhance communication, provide updated labor relations training, and seek legal advice. The IRI emphasizes staying informed about evolving labor laws, urging employers to rethink strategies. The IRI Alert content is not legal advice, and professional legal counsel should be sought before acting on received information.

White House Task Force Release Pro-Union Recommendations

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued several important rule changes and case decisions favorable to employers over the last several weeks as part of its year-end wrap-up activities and ahead of the expiration of Board Member Lauren McFerran’s term on December 16, 2019. The new rules ensure more fairness for employers in the election process particularly because several changes incorporate more reasonable timeframes for employers to conduct required actions.

Labor Activity in Health Care Jan-June 2021

The 55th Semi-Annual IRI Labor Activity in Health Care Report includes: An analysis of national, regional, and state representation petitions and elections (RC, RD, and RM) as reported by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) during 2020 and the first six months of 2021.

The Labor Law/Activity Update: Articles written by labor experts about relevant and timely labor issues impacting employers and the workplace.

A New Era: The Time to Prepare is Now

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued several important rule changes and case decisions favorable to employers over the last several weeks as part of its year-end wrap-up activities and ahead of the expiration of Board Member Lauren McFerran’s term on December 16, 2019. The new rules ensure more fairness for employers in the election process particularly because several changes incorporate more reasonable timeframes for employers to conduct required actions.

PRO Act

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued several important rule changes and case decisions favorable to employers over the last several weeks as part of its year-end wrap-up activities and ahead of the expiration of Board Member Lauren McFerran’s term on December 16, 2019. The new rules ensure more fairness for employers in the election process particularly because several changes incorporate more reasonable timeframes for employers to conduct required actions.

The unions’ Use of COVID-19: What to look for and how to respond

Healthcare organizations globally are grappling with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with hospitals and healthcare workers at the forefront of the response. Some unions, such as the Michigan Nurses Association, are accused of exploiting the situation to advance their agendas, using COVID-19 anxiety to organize and gather information. The California Nurses Union and National Nurses United are actively criticizing healthcare employers, conducting surveys, and sending letters to health authorities. Media outlets have reported on these activities, with specific criticism directed at UC Davis Medical Center. The alert advises healthcare organizations to act promptly by updating policies, communicating clearly with employees and patients, and monitoring union activities to respond effectively. Legal counsel is recommended for addressing potential labor relations issues.

NLRB Issues Key Rule and Precedent Changes

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued several important rule changes and case decisions favorable to employers over the last several weeks as part of its year-end wrap-up activities and ahead of the expiration of Board Member Lauren McFerran’s term on December 16, 2019. The new rules ensure more fairness for employers in the election process particularly because several changes incorporate more reasonable timeframes for employers to conduct required actions.