Amazon found guilty of labor violations amid unionization efforts at Bessemer plant

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WBMA) — Amazon was found guilty of violating labor laws during unionization efforts at its Bessemer factory.

In 2022, an appeal was filed by the Retail Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), stating that the company intimidated workers and prevented unionization efforts during elections.

The RWDSU listed 21 charges, including intimidating an employee wearing a pro-union button and sending pro-union employees text messages accusing them of harassing co-workers.

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A judge ruled that Amazon would have to post a notice at its Bessemer facility, as well as in break rooms and restrooms.

The notice should also be distributed and sent to the employees through various electronic means.

New elections would be held.

RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum released a statement on the ruling:

We have never doubted that Amazon would take any opportunity, legal or not, to deny free and fair elections to its workers at its Bessemer warehouse. These were the first Amazon warehouse workers anywhere in the country to seek union representation.

Once again, Amazon has been found to have violated basic labor laws. Just as was ordered after the first election, a new election, now a second runoff election, has been ordered again, based on Amazon’s conduct, this time before the final results of the runoff election were even determined.

However, we reject the ALJ’s decision not to provide the significant and meaningful solutions we requested and that would be necessary for free and fair elections. There is no reason to expect a different outcome in a third election – unless there are additional solutions. Otherwise, Amazon will continue to repeat its past behavior and the board will continue to call new elections.

Two things are clear in this decision; Amazon has broken the law again, and labor laws in this country are being broken in stunning ways. We object to the decision of Administrative Law Judge Michael P. Silverstein. Amazon must be held responsible and we will press charges accordingly.