The labor community is rejoicing as President Biden begins to reshape agencies and those who deal with labor grievances.
Labor lawyer Joyce Goldstein of Joyce Goldstein and Associates joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast to explain the various shakeups and changes at the National Labor Relations Board and how they will affect working people.
Changes at the NLRB
Goldstein said the NLRB was overrun by corporate sympathizers and corporate lawyers for President Trump’s term. Correcting this was one of the first moves made by the Biden administration, with changes happening during the inauguration ceremony.
She said it was remarkable to see President Biden move so quickly to get rid of Peter Robb, former NLRB General Counsel. President Biden then doubled down and fired Robb’s second in command, an action that many in the labor community say is giving them a taste of their own medicine.
President Biden quickly appointed Peter Orr as acting general counsel, a smart move according to Goldstein. Orr is most known for his advocacy for the unionization of collegiate athletes in Illinois.
Goldstein said he has already gone to work. One of his early actions affects employees of the NLRB, who previously had to ask the general counsel for permission prior to accepting any speaking engagements.
Additionally, he has rescinded Robb-era memos dealing with “free riders” and other anti-union policies.