Labor Board accuses Apple of illegal policies affecting employees nationwide

In the United States, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has accused Apple of implementing illegal policies affecting employees nationwide. This complaint, filed by the NLRB's Los Angeles office, highlights unlawful rules such as confidentiality agreements and non-disclosure policies that violate the National Labor Relations Act. The investigation, which began in 2021, culminated in this complaint after Apple and the NLRB failed to reach a settlement. This case is significant as it marks the first time the NLRB has addressed Apple's policies on a national scale, rather than focusing on individual stores. Over the past two years, Apple has entered into six settlement agreements with the NLRB regarding unfair labor practices. However, three additional complaints are pending, and the NLRB is investigating around 30 more cases across 11 states. The recent complaint is set for a hearing in January, indicating ongoing scrutiny of Apple's labor practices. Previous allegations against Apple include illegal interrogation of workers about unionization efforts and preventing them from distributing pro-union materials. These actions have led to failed union drives in some locations, while employees at two stores have successfully formed unions despite the company's resistance. The Oklahoma City store recently ratified its first contract after a strike authorization vote. The NLRB's actions reflect a broader trend of increasing scrutiny on large corporations regarding their treatment of employees and unionization efforts, highlighting the ongoing struggle for workers' rights in the tech industry.