Amazon and SpaceX are quietly trying to subvert national labor laws

Amazon accused in a legal filing Published Friday morning that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is unconstitutional. There are companies like SpaceX and Trader Joe’s – Amazon Frequently had to face Labor Law Violation From a federal agency – recently created Similar attack Due to which national labor security is at risk.

This is just Amazon’s latest try To Block union organized In its fulfillment centres. But this time, these companies are not just limiting the rights of their employees. If these threats against the NLRB continue, American workers could lose nearly a century of workplace protections.

“It’s silly,” said Seth Goldstein, legal counsel for Trader Joe’s United and the Amazon labor union. “I don’t believe in any of this, and I think it’s just an excuse to kill unions.”

Amazon claims that the structure of the NLRB is unconstitutional because administrative law judges are “insulated from presidential oversight”, thus violating the separation of powers. The company also argues against the structure of the NLRB as well as its ability to fine the company for unfair labor practices after a hearing rather than a full jury trial.

Amazon did not respond to a request for comment.

“Judges need the same protections to remain independent as federal judges. You can’t fire federal judges,” Goldstein told TechCrunch. The complaint about the lack of jury trials for companies may seem less dubious, but Goldstein still thinks it’s a stretch. “At the end of the day , the courts have jurisdiction over the board’s decisions. So what are they complaining about?”

Like other federal agencies, the NLRB is largely shaped by the sitting President. Under President Joe Biden, who refers to oneself As a pro-worker, the NLRB has been friendly Towards the interests of workers. But as the 2024 election approaches, a Republican administration could make significant changes that would make it more likely for corporations to succeed in efforts to repeal long-standing labor laws.

“I believe this is a real threat to workers, especially if Donald Trump is elected,” Goldstein said.