The Labor Law Insider

Forget the Election: Union Representation Without the Messy Election is the Next Labor Law Reality, Part II

Episode Summary

Husch Blackwell partners Tom O’Day and Tyler Paetkau join Labor Law Insider host Tom Godar in Part II of this discussion of the impact of new Cemex decision by the NLRB. Suddenly, minor violations of the National Labor Relations Act—or even a single violation—could result in an order forcing recognition of a union without the union ever achieving majority status in a secret ballot election.

Episode Notes

Husch Blackwell partners Tom O’Day and Tyler Paetkau join Labor Law Insider host Tom Godar in Part II of this discussion of the impact of new Cemex decision by the NLRB. Suddenly, minor violations of the National Labor Relations Act—or even a single violation—could result in an order forcing recognition of a union without the union ever achieving majority status in a secret ballot election.

The Insiders also discuss the serious impact of a union election cycle reduced to only a couple of weeks, as well as the unprecedented employer obligation to file an election request with the NLRB upon presentation of a petition or cards claiming majority support of a union. 

Responding to this new threat must include a review and audit of your handbook, policies, and offer letters. The Insiders recommend offering valuable training to supervisors and emphasizing and practicing the pro-employee values of your company. 

It is even suggested that you have documents ready for when a union files in order to be up and running for the shortened election cycle even if you are successful in getting to a secret ballot vote. 

The Labor Law Insider podcast shares the secret that forewarned is forearmed.