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President Trump’s nominees to the National Labor Relations Board told a Senate panel they would remain independent in their decision-making, despite growing concerns over political influence following the firing of a Democratic board member. James Murphy and Scott Mayer, the two nominees, stressed their commitment to applying the law impartially, even as Trump asserts greater control over independent agencies. Lawmakers pressed them on labor disputes and the board’s mounting case backlog, which has grown since the NLRB lost its quorum. While supporters view the nominees as experienced and capable, critics worry that recent executive actions could erode the board’s autonomy. A full Senate vote will follow if the committee approves their appointments.

California has enacted a new law that allows the state to intervene in union elections and workplace disputes when federal regulators fail to act. Assembly Bill 288 gives the California Public Employment Relations Board authority to step in when the National Labor Relations Board lacks a quorum or delays action for over six months. Supporters say the measure protects workers’ rights amid federal dysfunction and sweeping staff cuts under the Trump administration. Business groups argue the law oversteps legal boundaries and could face constitutional challenges. The bill also establishes a state enforcement fund, supported by employer penalties, to finance the board’s expanded role.

Labor and employment investigations across federal agencies have largely paused due to the ongoing government shutdown, delaying case resolutions for both workers and employers. Agencies like the Department of Labor, NLRB, and EEOC are operating with minimal staff, halting enforcement of key laws related to discrimination, union rights, and wage violations. While essential safety inspections and imminent threats will still be addressed, routine investigations, hearings, and outreach have been suspended. Critics warn the shutdown could create long-term case backlogs and discourage workers from filing claims. The freeze also affects visa processing and labor certifications, leaving some foreign workers in limbo.

A labor dispute between Nigeria’s oil workers’ union and the Dangote Refinery has escalated, with the union ordering an immediate halt to gas and crude deliveries following mass layoffs. The union claims over 800 Nigerian workers were dismissed and replaced by foreign staff, calling the refinery’s actions unjustified. Dangote management argues the cuts were necessary for safety and efficiency, labeling the union’s move as unlawful interference. The standoff adds pressure to the $20 billion facility, already struggling with crude shortages and foreign exchange issues. A prolonged shutdown could disrupt fuel supplies and worsen economic instability in Nigeria.

Investor pressure and underperformance have led to a leadership shakeup at CSX railroad, with CEO Joe Hinrichs stepping down less than two months after calls for a merger or his removal. Steve Angel, a veteran executive with experience in industrial sectors, has been appointed as the new CEO. Proponents believe Angel’s background in mergers and acquisitions could help CSX navigate growing consolidation in the rail industry. Others caution that recent operational disruptions, not leadership alone, may have driven the company’s struggles. The change comes as competitors prepare for a major Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger.

South Korea’s proposal to implement a 4.5-day workweek is drawing sharp criticism from business groups concerned about rising costs and lagging productivity. The plan, a key initiative of President Lee Jae Myung, aims to boost work-life balance and address demographic challenges by cutting weekly hours without reducing pay. Supporters say shorter hours could improve quality of life and tackle low birth rates, while employers warn the move is premature given Korea’s labor productivity remains well below that of advanced economies. Small businesses and industry leaders argue that without gains in efficiency, the shift could widen the gap between wages and output. A new bill and task force are expected to shape the roadmap by year’s end.

After nearly two months of striking, Boeing Defense and the machinists’ union IAM 837 have agreed to resume contract negotiations with a federal mediator present. The union, representing over 3,200 workers across Missouri and Illinois, is pushing for better wages, retirement benefits, and a larger ratification bonus than Boeing’s previous offers. Tensions escalated after Boeing dismissed the union’s proposed contract as a publicity stunt, while union leaders insisted they’re ready to negotiate without restrictions. Political figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders and local Democratic congressmen, have voiced support for the workers. The renewed talks follow a week of public sparring and a planned rally to bolster union solidarity.

The Trump administration has moved to eliminate union protections for federal prison workers, following a prior executive order that affected intelligence and security personnel. Bureau of Prisons Director William Marshall claimed the existing labor contract hindered workplace improvements, while union leaders condemned the move as a direct attack on employee rights. Despite the change, Marshall assured staff that legal safeguards like pay and whistleblower protections would remain intact. Labor groups argue the decision will make it harder to address dangerous conditions and chronic understaffing across federal facilities.

The U.S. National Labor Relations Board has decided to retract its accusations against Apple CEO Tim Cook regarding alleged breaches of federal labor laws. This development was reported by Bloomberg News, which cited a letter confirming the withdrawal. The initial claims suggested Cook may have interfered with employee rights, but the board has now opted not to pursue the matter further. The announcement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of labor practices within major tech companies.

Another nationwide strike is set for October 2 in France as labor leaders seek to pressure Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu to reject austerity policies introduced by his predecessor. Union officials say Lecornu failed to provide clear responses to workers’ demands during a recent meeting, despite previous mass protests. The new prime minister faces mounting pressure from both protesters demanding social protections and investors concerned about France’s widening budget deficit. With no majority in parliament and no draft 2026 budget yet announced, Lecornu’s next steps remain uncertain.