Supreme Court Decisions Highlight Flaws in Labor Law Protections

Andrew Strom, labor lawyer, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions involving a disabled firefighter, an Apple Store in New York and a Starbucks location in Los Angeles.

The case of a disabled firefighter, Karen Stanford, revealed how the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can limit workers' ability to seek justice. Strom explained that the majority opinion prevented Stanford from suing after retirement, demonstrating a narrow reading of the law that fails to consider legislative intent. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's dissent, Strom noted, powerfully argued for a more comprehensive interpretation that aligns with the ADA's purpose of protecting workers from discrimination.

Strom then discussed two cases involving union organizing efforts at an Apple Store in New York and a Starbucks in Los Angeles. These cases, heard in the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, respectively, showcase how employers can exploit the current legal system to challenge National Labor Relations Board decisions. Strom emphasized how these rulings, which sided with employers on questionable grounds, illustrate the need for labor law reform to better protect workers' rights to organize.

The conversation also touched on the broader implications of these decisions for the labor movement. Strom explained that the courts' interpretations of labor laws often favor employers, making it increasingly difficult for workers to exercise their rights. He stressed the importance of understanding these legal challenges and the need for continued advocacy to strengthen labor protections.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about these labor law issues and their impact on workers' rights.