LaborLab Secretary-Treasurer Bob Funk joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the organization’s efforts to launch the largest and most comprehensive digital union-busting tracking system.
LaborLab is the only nonprofit watchdog organization to daily track union-busting activities through LM-20 filings with the U.S. Department of Labor.
Companies are legally required to file LM-20 reports within 30 days of hiring anti-union organizations to discourage their workers from organizing. However, companies are only required to file a report if they meet face-to-face with workers. Under the advice exception, anything technically considered advice such as writing speeches, sending text messages, training management or sending out fliers is exempt, Funk said. It is a massive loophole one could practically drive a semi-truck through, he added.
Funk estimated that only about 10 percent of anti-union activity can be tracked. Though companies are required to file within 30 days of hire, many do not or choose to file late. The penalties for missing or late filings are lax to non-existent, he explained.
Companies instituting legal strategies to delay or prevent unionization is the norm in America, Funk said. It happens at every level of the economy, as LaborLab strives to shine a light on and illuminate the union busting industry in the U.S.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about the LaborLab’s efforts to track union busting activities.