The Threat of Anti-Labor Laws You Need to Know
Anti-labor laws are spreading across the United States with alarming speed. These laws aim to undermine workers’ rights, limit their ability to unionize, and curb efforts to raise the minimum wage. For workers’ rights advocates and workers looking to protect their rights, understanding these developments is crucial.
Barrett & Farahany will examine the dangers of anti-labor laws, provide examples of states pushing these laws, and highlight localities that are successfully fighting back.
What are Anti-Labor Laws?
Anti-labor laws are designed to weaken the power and influence of labor unions and workers. They often include measures to:
- Limit the ability of workers to unionize.
- Prevent increases in minimum wage rates.
- Block laws and programs that would otherwise benefit workers.
These laws hinder workers from organizing, advocating for better pay, and ensuring safe working conditions, thereby eroding their fundamental civil rights.
The main objective of anti-labor laws is to control and diminish the collective bargaining power of employees. Businesses and lawmakers who support these laws argue that they help maintain economic stability and attract investments.
While there may be some truth to the idea that businesses want to avoid employing union workers, it’s for the workers to decide if they want to work for such businesses.
What States are Pursuing or Passing Anti-Labor Laws?
Several states have seen a rise in anti-labor sentiments. Some southern states, in particular, have their governors speaking out against unionization in the auto construction businesses:
- Tennessee
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Mississippi
The Impact on Civil Rights
Anti-labor laws not only affect wages and working conditions but also impact broader civil rights. Workers lose their voice, their ability to advocate for better conditions, and face increased exploitation. This undermines the principle of fair labor practices, making it harder for employees to challenge unfair treatment.
Examples of Localities Helping Workers
Despite the rise of anti-labor laws, not all hope is lost. Where the state governments are failing to protect workers, localities and workers groups are making significant strides in protecting workers’ rights.
San Diego County
San Diego County has implemented a fund to support workers:
- Provides up to $3,000 to victims of wage theft.
- Assists staff in pursuing employers for unpaid wages, ensuring workers get what they are owed.
Step Up Louisiana
Step Up Louisiana organizes for economic and educational justice. New Orleans, inspired by their advocacy, has taken steps to become a model employer.
- In 2022, New Orleans increased the minimum wage for city employees to $13.25, further raising it to $15 in 2023.
- The City Council codified the right to organize for city employees, setting a precedent in a state without a minimum wage law.
The Power of Worker Organizing
Increased worker organizing and higher approval of labor unions have led many states to introduce bills aimed at curbing union activities. This backlash shows the significant impact and threat that organized labor poses to anti-labor agendas.
The Role of State Preemption Laws
State preemption laws can nullify local ordinances, preventing the implementation of worker-friendly policies. From 2015 to 2017, there was a surge in preemption laws, affecting everything from minimum wage to paid leave. Although the passage of these laws has slowed, their effects continue to undermine local efforts to enhance workers’ rights.
Localities Pushing Back Against Anti-Labor Efforts
Despite these challenges, some localities are finding ways to support workers:
- Local governments in hostile states are leading efforts to advance workers’ rights.
- Examples include ordinances allowing workers to file complaints and recover stolen wages without the need for a lawyer.
The Future of Workers’ Rights
The ongoing struggle between anti-labor laws and worker-friendly local policies highlights the importance of continuous advocacy. Workers’ rights advocates must stay informed and active, supporting efforts that protect and enhance labor conditions, and workers must remain aware of the rights they have.
Contact the Employment Law Attorneys at Barrett & Farahany to Protect Your Rights at Work
The rise of anti-labor laws poses significant challenges to workers’ rights across the United States. However, localities and organizations are finding creative ways to fight back and support workers.
By staying informed and engaged, workers and workers’ rights advocates can help ensure that labor protections continue to advance. If you need help protecting your rights as a worker, contact Barrett & Farahany for assistance.
