U.S. Labor Board Rules Apple Illegally Interrogated Staff And Confiscated Union Flyers

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses a ruling by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) that Apple illegally questioned staff of its World Trade Center store in New York City in 2022 over their pro-union sympathies.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Ruling by the NLRB

1. What did the NLRB rule regarding Apple's actions?

• The NLRB affirmed a decision by an administrative law judge that Apple illegally:
  • Stopped workers from placing union flyers on a table in the break room
  • Confiscated the union flyers
  • Interrogated staff over their "protected concerted activity"
• The NLRB ordered Apple to cease and desist from illegally questioning workers about union matters and confiscating union flyers.

2. What are the key details about this NLRB ruling?

• This is the NLRB's first decision against Apple.
• The NLRB cannot impose fines or direct punishments against Apple for its violations.
• Other cases against Apple are still pending, including one where the NLRB accused Apple of illegally excluding unionized workers from certain benefits.

[02] Background on Apple's anti-union actions

1. What other anti-union actions has Apple taken?

• Several Apple stores have moved to unionize in recent years, including locations in Short Hills, New Jersey, Oklahoma City, and Towson, Maryland.
• The NLRB found that Apple hosted mandatory anti-union meetings at an Atlanta store where management made coercive statements against employees.