Brown’s Graduate Labor Organization is advocating for a Rhode Island law to protect student workers’ union rights as the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) may reverse its 2016 decision granting them federal protections. The Trump administration’s influence over the NLRB raises concerns that private universities could stop recognizing student unions once contracts expire. Union leaders argue state-level protections are essential to maintaining bargaining rights, while some believe universities may voluntarily continue recognizing unions. If passed, the proposed law would ensure student workers remain covered under state labor protections regardless of NLRB rulings.
See "With federal student labor rights in limbo, Brown’s unions push for state-level protections", Ethan Schenker, The Brown Daily Herald, February 6, 2025