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Workplace policies that broadly ban audio or video recordings are facing increased scrutiny from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). While employers may restrict recordings to protect sensitive information, the NLRB has warned that blanket bans may unlawfully interfere with employees’ rights to engage in collective activity under the National Labor Relations Act. Examples of protected recordings include documenting unsafe conditions or discriminatory practices. Legal experts advise employers to craft narrowly tailored policies that clearly state legitimate business reasons and allow exceptions for protected concerted activity.

Law firms are continuing diversity efforts cautiously as the Trump administration intensifies scrutiny of DEI programs. Many are shifting focus to race-neutral initiatives like open mentorship, broader hiring pools, and anti-bias training to avoid legal challenges. Some firms have scaled back or rebranded their diversity work altogether following federal inquiries and executive orders. While critics argue these programs may still cross legal lines, others see them as vital tools to address longstanding inequities in one of the least diverse professions.

A pro-union bill in Colorado is expected to be vetoed despite full Democratic support in the legislature, setting off a wave of frustration among labor leaders. The measure would have made it easier for workers to negotiate dues, but failed to gain backing from business groups, which Governor Jared Polis had insisted was necessary. Labor officials accuse Polis of abandoning his past promises to support workers’ rights, while he argues the bill lacked the stability needed to prevent future political clashes. The veto is likely to intensify labor tensions and spark competing ballot initiatives in 2026.

A wave of departures from the U.S. Department of Labor has left the agency with a significantly reduced workforce and growing concerns about its ability to carry out core functions. Employees report increased workloads and diminished services, especially in enforcement and research. While the administration frames the cuts as part of a broader push for government efficiency, many within the agency warn they could severely weaken labor protections and disadvantage both American workers and businesses.

The Trump administration is appealing a court order that reinstated Susan Grundmann to the Federal Labor Relations Authority after a judge ruled her removal was unlawful. The case is now headed to the D.C. Circuit Court. Supporters of Grundmann argue the dismissal was politically motivated and disrupted critical labor oversight. Meanwhile, the administration contends it had authority to remove appointees and is challenging the ruling on legal grounds.

A new 3.2 million-square-foot fulfillment center is planned for Middletown, Delaware, just a few miles from the town’s existing site. The project, backed by Amazon, is expected by local officials to bring 1,000 to 1,200 jobs, though the company has not confirmed employment numbers. Supporters argue it will strengthen the local economy through job creation and increased tax revenue. Critics, however, question the quality and stability of the jobs, and raise concerns about automation and potential strain on infrastructure.

Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers have restarted negotiations with contracts set to expire May 22, raising fears of another strike or a lockout. Businesses are already shifting shipments to avoid the major delays seen during last year's strike, with experts saying companies are much better prepared this time. Some expect a lockout is more likely than a strike, as Canada Post struggles financially and may not afford another disruption. If no deal is reached, government intervention, as seen in past disputes, remains a possibility. Retailers and shipping companies are already taking steps like rerouting deliveries and warning customers.

The Trump administration issued an executive order citing national security to strip collective bargaining rights from over 1 million federal workers. Union leaders argue this is part of a broader attempt to weaken labor unions nationwide, warning the lawsuits could reach the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump officials claim the move is necessary to preserve presidential authority, while unions call it illegal retaliation aimed at silencing dissent. Courts have already granted some preliminary blocks on the order, and unions are filing motions to dismiss the administration’s lawsuits. Next steps include court rulings on the dismissals and possible escalation to the Supreme Court.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, once opposed by labor unions during his 2021 election, is now gaining their support as he seeks reelection. After stepping in to personally negotiate a city-union contract in 2023—offering $180 million more than initial limits—Harrell improved his relationship with labor groups that had once backed his opponent. Supporters say he’s proven a strong partner for unions, though critics argue his deal worsened Seattle’s budget problems. Harrell has already secured key endorsements, and while there are some recent tensions over office returns and budget cuts, labor leaders largely see him as the safest bet for 2025.

Numerous May Day protests are planned throughout the Bay Area today, with rallies in cities like San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose focusing on labor rights, immigration issues, and judicial independence. A major protest involves thousands of University of California employees striking over a hiring freeze they argue harms patient care and worker conditions. Meanwhile, activists in San Francisco are speaking out against attacks on judges, and in San Jose, organizers are highlighting immigrant safety and rights. Protesters see these demonstrations as necessary to protect workers and vulnerable communities, while institutions like UCSF emphasize their efforts to keep services running and hope to resolve disputes through dialogue.