Amazon recently reached a settlement with the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”) in which it agreed to rescind certain work rules that prohibited workers from sharing compensation information. Amazon’s former policy prohibited employees from discussing wages and other terms and conditions of employment –a violation of the National Labor Relations Act.
Interestingly, although Amazon has a large workforce, it has remained largely non-unionized. Fear that employees would invite a Union into the workplace if they were free to discuss wages and conditions of employment may have been the motivation behind Amazon’s strict policy. Perhaps Amazon now regrets that decision, as Unions probably see this settlement as a way in.
Personnel policies can be tricky — common sense is not always lawful under the NLRA and other employment laws. If you have questions — talk to your lawyer!
Author’s contact info:
Meredith S. Campbell
Co-Chair, Employment and Labor Group, Shulman Rogers
mcampbell@shulmanrogers.com | T 301.255.0550 | F301.230.2891
