Apple is facing serious allegations from the US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which accuses the tech giant of violating federal labor laws by imposing unlawful workplace rules.
According to a complaint issued late Monday (September 30), the company allegedly enforced confidentiality, non-disclosure, and non-compete agreements that infringe on employees' rights to organize and advocate for better working conditions.
Apple Accused of Restrictive Policies
The NLRB claims that Apple's policies on misconduct and social media are excessively restrictive, further limiting employees' ability to exercise their rights.
According to Reuters, the complaint specifically accuses Apple of "interfering with, restraining, and coercing employees" in violation of the National Labor Relations Act. The complaint targets practices that reportedly discourage open discussions about wages, discrimination, and other workplace concerns.
In response to the allegations, an Apple spokesperson defended the company's policies, emphasizing its commitment to employees' rights. Apple maintains that its employment policies clearly outline its stance on employees' rights to discuss working conditions, pay, and hours.
If Apple chooses not to settle the matter, the case will go to an administrative judge for a hearing in January. If the NLRB prevails, it could compel Apple to revoke the unlawful policies and inform employees nationwide about their legal rights.
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Ex-Apple Manager's Complaint Sparks Wave of Labor Disputes
These allegations stem from a 2021 complaint by former Apple senior engineering manager Ashley Gjovik. Gjovik claimed that Apple's confidentiality and social media policies prevented employees from discussing issues like pay equity and discrimination both internally and with the media.
She has since filed a lawsuit in federal court, accusing Apple of retaliating against her for filing complaints with the NLRB and attempting to organize employees. While a judge dismissed most of Gjovik's lawsuit, she has been given the opportunity to amend certain claims.
Apple is also facing multiple additional labor complaints. These include claims that the company unlawfully terminated an employee at its Cupertino headquarters for criticizing management and obstructed union organizing efforts at a retail store in Atlanta. The company denies any wrongdoing in these cases.
The NLRB has already ruled against Apple in a prior case involving union activities. In May, the board found that a manager at a Manhattan Apple store unlawfully interrogated an employee about union support. While the union organizing effort failed, Apple has challenged the NLRB's decision, according to Gizmodo.
Apple has reached six settlement agreements over the past two years to resolve unfair labor practice charges. Despite these settlements, at least three more complaints from regional NLRB offices are still awaiting rulings from administrative judges. The NLRB is also investigating 30 additional cases across 11 states, which may further complicate Apple's legal standing in labor disputes.
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