Uber has reached a settlement with 5,000 drivers who argue they were misclassified as independent contractors. The drivers were not covered by an arbitration agreement, though most drivers are now required to sign such an agreement before driving for the company. The agreement will pay $1.3 million to the drivers, or about $150 per driver on average after subtracting attorneys’ fees and costs.
Senator Bernie Sanders continued his public attacks on Amazon, this time alleging it has interfered with efforts of Whole Foods employees to unionize. Senator Sanders was joined by Senator Elizabeth Warren in writing a letter to the company demanding an explanation for a leaked video that appeared to show managers making anti-union threats to Whole Foods employees.
The Labor Department’s regulatory agenda for the next few months includes attempts to roll back the joint employer rule and changes to overtime pay. Franchise businesses like McDonald’s have been pushing to overturn the Obama-era joint employer rule, which holds the parent corporation liable for the labor violations of the franchisee. However, Labor Department attempts to turn back the rule have been complicated by conflicts of interest at the NLRB.
Daily News & Commentary
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February 20
An analysis of the Board's decisions since regaining a quorum; 5th Circuit dissent criticizes Wright Line, Thryv.
February 19
Union membership increases slightly; Washington farmworker bill fails to make it out of committee; and unions in Argentina are on strike protesting President Milei’s labor reform bill.
February 18
A ruling against forced labor in CO prisons; business coalition lacks standing to challenge captive audience ban; labor unions to participate in rent strike in MN
February 17
San Francisco teachers’ strike ends; EEOC releases new guidance on telework; NFL must litigate discrimination and retaliation claims.
February 16
BLS releases jobs data; ILO hosts conference on child labor.
February 15
The Office of Personnel Management directs federal agencies to terminate their collective bargaining agreements, and Indian farmworkers engage in a one-day strike to protest a trade deal with the United States.