Trump Judge Shoots Down Major Pro-Worker Reform

LOADING ERROR LOADING A federal judge appointed by former President Donald Trump delivered a big win for business lobbies on Friday by shooting down a new federal rule that could make it easier for fast-food and other workers to organize. U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker of the Eastern District of Texas issued an order vacating what’s known as the National Labor Relations Board’s “joint-employer” rule, saying the agency went too far in issuing it. “The rule would make it easier for workers to argue that a company like McDonald’s is the one setting the working conditions, not just the no-name franchisee who signs the paychecks.” Unions and businesses have tussled for years over whether fast-food chains and other companies that use subcontractors should be considered “joint employers” under the law. The NLRB’s proposed rule would make it easier for workers to argue that a company like McDonald’s is the one setting the working conditions, not just the no-name franchisee who signs the paychecks. “Trump's appointments to the federal bench have tilted the judiciary in a more conservative direction.” The SEIU and other unions have tried for years to broaden the legal reading of who can be considered a “joint employer.” The SEIU-backed Fight for $15 campaign, which led strikes throughout the fast-food industry, argued that brand-name companies like Wendy’s and Burger King control the working conditions inside franchised restaurants and should be held accountable when workers’ rights are violated.