WNYLaborToday News - New York City Labor News

32BJ SEIU-Represented Broadway Cleaners Reach A Tentative Four-Year Contract That Features A 'Wage Increase & Protection For Their Employer-Paid Family Health Care'

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Broadway Cleaners, represented by 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU), have reached a tentative contract agreement with theater owners. Members across more than 30 venues voted in late June to authorize a potential work stoppage if the Broadway League refused to settle a fair contract. Highlights of the agreement include a $5-an-hour wage increase, a 21% increase from the current rates by the end of the new four-year contract, as well as improved paid leave, and protection for its employer-paid family health care. Martha Aristizabal, a Porter at the Ambassador Theatre, said: “We risked our lives during COVID to make sure Broadway could safely reopen. We work long nights and weekends, often missing major milestones with family and loved ones, to do the hard work it takes to put on each and every performance. This victory honors all that we’ve put in over the years. By winning wage and pension increases, improving paid leave, and protecting our health care, we can dedicate more to taking care of ourselves and enjoying time with the people we care about.”

For More On This Labor News Report, Go To: Broadway Cleaners Reach Tentative Agreement After Holding Strike Vote

Harper's Magazine Staff Hold One Day Strike Action

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The Editorial Staff of Harper’s Magazine, Union Members of United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 2110, held a one-day Strike to protest the Magazine’s contract offer. Workers Unionized in 2024 and have been trying to negotiate a contract for almost two years. Workers cite low wages as a primary cause of the dispute. The Entry Level Editorial position for an Assistant Editor pays just $45,000 per year, well below the $71,000 that New York City Hall’s recent report on the True Cost of Living estimates as the amount necessary for a single adult to afford to live in the City. Earlier this month, Staff sent a letter to Management urging them to revise their offer (View the letter here). Management has argued that increases in minimum salaries must be paid for by Workers giving up their employer-paid health insurance.

Photo Courtesy Of The New York City AFL-CIO Labor Council.

Union Steamfitters 'Prevent Catastrophic' Midtown Manhattan Building Crash

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - In all the worries and angst over loss of jobs nationwide, what is often overlooked is that there are certain skills, observations and alertness only humans can perform - such as preventing a catastrophic building collapse in Midtown Manhattan.

That’s what happened at 235 East 42nd Street on July 7th, when two Members of Steamfitters Local 638 discovered buckling beams, sagging floors and falling concrete at a massive condo conversion project’s 21st story.

They alerted supervisors, got out and got every other Worker - Union and Non-Union - out, fast.

And then, responding to a 911 call, Police and Fire Fighters arrived and evacuated several blocks.

Traffic snarled for hours, and people fled hotels and businesses - but nobody got hurt.

The building, the former headquarters of the Pfizer Pharmaceutical Company, was being converted from a 22-story office tower to a 37-story future residential building.

But to add 15 floors, you need to reinforce the building’s structural steel - Local 638 President Robert Bartels and Cliff Johnsen, the Local’s Business Agent for Midtown East, said in a telephone interview with People’s World.

Apparently, that didn’t happen.

There was also no exterior bracing on the building.

On July 7th, the two Steamfitters “started to notice the windows were cracking. And then the concrete was dropping down to the next floor,” said Johnsen. “And the walls were collapsing.”

When you add 15 or 16 floors to an existing building, its steel reinforcing vertical structure “has to be buoyed up or changed,” one of the two said.

It wasn’t.

The two Steamfitters on the 21st floor alerted Johnsen and an unidentified supervisor called 911.

The two Workers got out and got everyone else out.

The Steamfitters and the Elevator Constructors are the only Union Workers on the condo conversion project.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Union Steamfitters prevent catastrophic midtown Manhattan building crash – People's World

More Than 600 Hachette Book Group Employees 'Win Election To Establish The Largest Union In Trade Publisher History'

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - More than 600 Union-eligible Employees at the Hachette Book Group (HBG), the third-largest Trade Publisher in the U.S., Workers have voted 388-to-130 to Unionize with the Washington-Baltimore News Guild.

The newly-certified Hachette Workers Coalition (HWC) will now begin negotiating its first Collective Bargaining Agreement with the company.

With Workers represented across every HBG Office and remote location, HWC is the largest Union in Trade Publishing history and makes Hachette the second of the Big Five Publishers to Unionize.

Brenna Haney, a Metadata Associate in Hachette’s Digital Sales Department, said: “This is the culmination of years of hard work by Employees who came together to fight for better working conditions for ourselves and the Publishing Industry as a whole. We withstood months of Anti-Union campaigning from the company and we march forward united, ready to bargain for better benefits, stronger protections and increased equity, transparency and agency in our workplace.”

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Hachette Book Group employees win election for largest union in trade publisher history - Washington-Baltimore News Guild

The Mamdani Administration 'Recovers $2.3 Million In Restitution For 1,600 Workers' Employed By Four Individual Employers In New York City

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The Mamdani Administration has secured more than $2.3 million in restitution for Workers from four employers accused of violating New York City's Worker Protection Laws, with more than 1,600 Workers set to receive compensation.

The settlements, reached by the City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, require Walgreens, Allstar Security, Consulting, Calzedonia - the parent company of lingerie retailer Intimissimi - and Kinship Coffee to pay a combined $2.1 million in restitution to workers, along with more than $218,000 in Civil Penalties and costs.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the City's Labor Laws are intended to provide workers with stability, arguing that unpredictable schedules and denied time off can have significant consequences for Working Families: "When a company shorts a worker on their schedule or their time off, that Worker pays for it. These laws exist because Working Families deserve stability on the job. If corporations choose to break them, they will pay what they owe."

The largest settlement was with Walgreens, which will pay more than $1.6 million to more than 570 Workers at three Brooklyn stores after investigators found the company repeatedly violated the City's Fair Workweek Law by failing to provide required advance notice of schedules and assigning additional hours without proper notice or Employee consent.

Allstar Security & Consulting agreed to pay $270,000 to more than 900 Workers after failing to provide paid protected time off required under City Law.

Calzedonia will pay more than $154,000 to over 50 workers for Fair Workweek violations, while Kinship Coffee will pay more than $67,000 to more than 90 Workers at three Queens locations for violating the city's Protected Time Off Law.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Mamdani administration recovers $2.3 million for workers in labor enforcement - The Chief

Hotel & Gaming Trades Council Members Picketing Two Times Square Hotels

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – Union-represented Hotel Workers employed at the Fairfield by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square and at the Four Points by Sheraton Midtown-Times Square on West 40th Street - who are calling for an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) boycott, are picketing outside the Times Square Hotels. The Workers voted to become Members of the Hotel & Gaming Trades Council (HTC) in October of 2022. Throughout years of negotiations for their first Union contract, the HTC has filed multiple charges accusing the hotel of committing unfair labor practices - including failing to bargain in good faith, discriminating against Workers because of their support for the Union, encouraging Workers to get rid of the Union, replacing Union positions with sub-contracted Workers, and more. The Workers decided to organize with HTC in 2022 because they wanted a living wage, affordable health care, safer working conditions, and fair treatment. The Hotel’s long-time workforce earns an average wage of just $20.56 per hour in housekeeping. This is $21.81 less per hour, and nearly $40,000 less per year, than a Union Housekeeper. María De Leon, a Room Attendant employed at the Fairfield New York Manhattan Times Square, said: “Management wants to keep the money to themselves while we live in poverty. I’ve worked at the Hotel for seven years and I make ($17.82) per hour. After I pay my rent, I’m left with nothing. I can’t sleep at night worrying - what am I going to do? How am I going to eat? We need the Union.”

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: Hotel Workers | Hotel Workers Begin Picketing at Two Times Square… And Hotel and Gaming Trades Council Members Begin Picketing at Two Times Square Hotels

Photo Courtesy Of The HTC’s Facebook Page.

As Negotiations On A New Contract Continue, 32BJ SEIU-Represented Broadway Cleaners Vote To Authorize A Strike - 'If Needed'

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Nicole Rosky at BroadwayWorld reports more than 250 Union-represented Cleaners have voted to authorize a Strike that would impact 30 Broadway Theaters showing Tony award-winning productions like Schmigadoon, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, Wicked and The Lion King. This marks the first time Broadway Cleaners have authorized a Strike in nearly two decades. Negotiations started in early June between 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the Union representing the Workers, and the Broadway League, which represents employers ATG, Nederlander, Shubert and Circle in the Square. As the parties are not close to resolving the outstanding issues and the agreement has already expired, Broadway Cleaners voted to Strike if needed "to keep up with the cost of living and secure the contract that they need."

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Broadway Cleaners Union Votes to Authorize a Strike; Negotiations for New Contract Underway

Photo Courtesy The National AFL-CIO Via BroadwayWorld.

More Wage Theft Allegations: New York City 'Seeks To Shut Down Delivery App Over Alleged Wage Violations'

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The Mamdani Administration is asking a Federal Court to block a Delivery App from operating in New York City, alleging the company paid Workers as little as $3.67 an hour in violation of the City's Minimum Wage Laws. The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) and the City's Law Department have filed a motion seeking a preliminary injunction that would prohibit Patio Delivery Incorporated, which operates under the name Motoclick, from continuing to do business in the City unless it complies with the City's Delivery Worker pay requirements. The filing marks the first time DCWP has sought a preliminary injunction to enforce New York City's Delivery Worker Protections. "Paying New York Delivery Workers poverty wages is not only wrong - it's illegal," DCWP Commissioner Samuel Levine said. "DCWP is asking the Court to shut Motoclick down unless and until it comes into compliance. New York will not allow this company to continue underpaying New Yorkers.” The motion stems from a lawsuit the City filed against Motoclick in January, alleging the company systematically underpaid Workers and took fees from their earnings. According to the City, Motoclick's own reports submitted to DCWP showed Workers earning between $3.67 and $4.67 an hour in May - far below the required minimum of $22.13 an hour. The City estimates the company and its Chief Executive Officer, Juan Pablo Salinas Salek, owe Workers millions of dollars in unpaid wages.

To Directly Access This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: City seeks to shut down delivery app over alleged wage violations - The Chief

Luxury NYC Clothing Brand Salon 1884 Indicted For Wage Theft, Worker Exploitation - 'Allegedly Forced Employees to Work Long Hours While Stealing Up to $54,000'

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The owner of Luxury Clothing Brand Salon 1884 was indicted by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for allegedly forcing Employees to work long hours while stealing up to $54,000 of wages.

Andrea Marshal, 44, has been charged with one count of grand larceny, one count of scheming to defraud, one count of effect of failure to secure compensation, and five counts of failure to pay wages in accordance with Labor Law.

Marshal allegedly stole 924 hours of time worked from nine Workers.

Employees worked consecutive overnight shifts, Bragg alleged, with Seamstresses in the Company's 39th Street Warehouse working more than 40 hours a week, including shifts that lasted between 12 and 17 hours.

In at least two instances, Bragg alleged, Employees worked more than 100 hours in one week.

“As alleged, Andrea Marshall, the owner of Salon 1884, exploited and stole approximately ($54,000) in wages from her Employees while selling luxury garments," Bragg said. “She preyed on the significant power imbalance of her Employees who relied on the promised wages for housing and basic living expenses, feared retaliation and lacked the financial resources to pursue legal recourse. Hard-working New Yorkers deserve every dollar they earn."

Marshall directly controlled her Employees by setting their schedules, overseeing their punch-ins and punch-outs as well as determining their rates of pay, Prosecutors allege.

She paid Workers through Zelle, checks or cash, but delayed Workers' payments after their work had already been completed.

Prosecutors allege, at times, Marshall offered clothing in lieu of wages and proposed partial payment plans that she did not honor.

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Luxury clothing brand owner indicted for wage theft, worker exploitation - The Chief

After New York City Carriage Horse's Death, The Transit Workers Union Says Carriage Drivers Face Threats & Anti-Immigrant Harassment As The TWU 'Battles Against A Bill To Shut Down' The Carriages

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The death of Deniz, a carriage horse that collapsed and died in Central Park, has reignited debate over New York City's Horse-Carriage Industry. But for the Carriage Drivers represented by Transit Workers Union (TWU) Local 100, the days following the horse's death have also brought a wave of threats, harassment and anti-Immigrant attacks on-line. Deniz died on June 9th after collapsing while carrying two passengers through Central Park. The horse's cause of death has not yet been determined - and a full necropsy is being conducted at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. According to TWU Local 100, Deniz had last been examined by a NYPD Veterinarian in March and was deemed fit for work. The death of an 18-year-old tourist following a horse-drawn carriage accident in Central Park has intensified calls from Animal Welfare Advocates to ban the industry - but the Union representing Carriage Drivers says the tragedy underscores the need for stronger safety measures, rather than eliminating hundreds of Carriage Driver jobs.

For More On This Labor News Report, Go To: Tourist's death intensifies debate over future of horse-drawn carriages - The Chief

Editorial Workers Employed At New York's Schneps Media 'Launch Union'

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – An overwhelming majority of eligible Staff at Schneps Media Network of hyperlocal news outlets spanning New York City and Long Island have announced the creation of a Union to secure competitive wages, sustainable working conditions and strengthen the news organization’s mission of providing objective local Journalism in the public interest.

With a team of about 30 across its Editorial Department, Schneps has taken on an increasingly critical role in the New York City and Long Island media landscape as part of its community-focused coverage of the Greater New York area.

The Publisher’s New York City footprint extends through five Boroughs – including: amNY, amNY Law, The Brooklyn Paper, The Bronx Times, Brownstoner, QNS, Noticias, New York Family, Staten Island Parent and Caribbean Life.

On Long Island, its outlets include the Long Island Press and Dan’s Papers.

The Schneps Media Union is joining with the Independent Association of Publishers’ Employees (IAPE), Local 1096 of The NewsGuild-Communications Workers of America (CWA).

Guild Locals represent nearly 6,000 Media Workers in the Greater New York area.

The Schneps Media Union has asked Josh and Victoria Schneps, the CEO/Publisher of Schneps Media, to voluntarily recognize the Union so both parties can quickly begin negotiating in good faith toward improved working conditions.

The request follows a decision by 81% of eligible Staffers to sign a mission statement and 85% Union Authorization Cards, clearly demonstrating their desire for representation.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Editorial workers at New York’s Schneps Media launch union | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

New York City Amazon Driver 'Fired Over Pro-Union' Social Media Posts

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Claudia Irizarry Aponte at The City Reporter reports that for more than a year, Esly Paredes shared regular dispatches of her life as a Delivery Driver for Amazon to her small following on TikTok - dishing on her preferred lunch spots and fashion scores among hundreds of videos of herself hauling packages and killing time between shifts. In one post in late April - filmed, like many of her videos, in full uniform inside a parked Amazon truck - a man she describes as her boss smiles and waves at the camera. Paredes said her bosses never raised any issues about her fledgling Social Media presence. That is, until she posted a series of videos supporting a City Council Bill fiercely opposed by Amazon and a consortium of groups representing the company’s sub-contractors. Paredes was fired in late May for violating her employer’s solicitation and Social Media policies, according to a copy of her termination letter obtained by The City Reporter, a charge she says violates her Free Speech Rights. She filed a formal complaint to the National Labor Relations Board with the help of the Teamsters, which has been organizing Amazon Delivery Drivers in New York and California for the last several years. “They thought I would stay quiet and they thought that by firing me they would silence me,” Paredes, a 31-year-old single Mother from Jamaica, Queens, said in Spanish. “But I’m raising my voice, speaking out in my videos even more to explain to fellow Drivers why these protections are necessary.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: NYC Amazon Driver Fired Over Pro-Union Social Media Posts | THE CITY — NYC News

Municipal Union 'Demands' NYC Hall 'Release Pay Disparity Report Amid Affordability Crisis' - Most Recent City Pay Disparity Report, Released In 2024, 'Showed City Workers Of Color Were Paid 84 Cents For Every $1 Paid To White City Employees'

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Amir Khafagy at Documented reports New Yorkers continue to struggle with an affordability crisis and the City’s Municipal Workers are no exception. Now, one Union is calling on Mayor Zohran Mamdani to finally release a report that could give better insight into pay disparity among City Workers. Since 2019, the Mayor’s Office has been legally required to publish an annual Pay Disparity Report that breaks down compensation across City Agencies by race and gender. The last time the report was released was in 2024, which compiled City data from 2020, 2021 and 2022. Since taking office in January, Mamdani has yet to release a Pay Disparity Report. Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1180 Secretary-Treasurer Robin Blair-Batte told Documented she was disappointed the Mayor hadn’t yet released the annual report, after former Mayor Eric Adams skipped the previous year. “It’s important because it affects a lot of our Members and most of our Members are Minorities and Women,” she said. The report’s release would highlight the fiscal struggles of the Union’s more than 9,000 City Employee Members, Blair-Batte said. The CWA’s Members serve as the backbone of the City’s bureaucratic infrastructure. Several Members, many of whom are Caribbean and Hispanic Women of Color, deal directly with the public, working across various Municipal Agencies in Administrative roles - such as Health and Hospitals, Board of Education, Housing, Transit and the School Construction Authority.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Municipal Union Demands City Hall Release Pay Disparity Report

In New York City, Workers Employed At A Leading Asian American Pacific Islander Advocacy Organization Win Voluntary Union Recognition

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Workers employed at a local Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Advocacy Organization - the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), have demanded voluntary recognition of their Union: CACF Workers United (CACF WU).

The organization is led by Co-Executive Directors, Anita Gundanna and Vanessa Leung.

CACF’s Board of Directors includes Art Chang, who ran for New York City Mayor in 2021.

The mission of CACF, which supports more than 90 member organizations, is “to advocate for equity and opportunity for marginalized AAPI children and families.”

This May, the organization helped secure $30 million in funding from New York State for AAPI communities.

At the organization, most of the Employees are AAPI-identifiying.

In their petition for management to recognize their Union, the CACF WU states a desire “to ensure that the things we practice and preach externally reflect what we practice and preach internally.”

The Bargaining Unit represents 14 Employees.

Their petition for Union Representation represents a further expansion of Union Drives taking place across non-profit organizations, where burnout, low pay, workplace discrimination and toxic culture are often cited as workplace complaints.

Unionization efforts by CACF WU are led in collaboration with Workers United NY/NJ (WU NY/NJ), a Joint Board of Workers United that has its origins in the historic International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union and the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union.

WU NY/NJ also represents non-profit Workers at Garden State Equality and The Baffler.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: WORKERS AT LEADING AAPI ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION LAUNCH UNION CAMPAIGN – Workers United NY NJ Regional Joint Board

RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102-Represented Food Service Workers Ratify Contract At Chartwells Compass Group At Iona University In New Rochelle With AI Protections

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW ROCHELLE, NEW YORK) – Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union/United Food & Commercial Workers (RWDSU/UFCW) Local 1102-represented Food Service Workers employed at Chartwells Compass Group at Iona University in New Rochelle New York, and Union Leadership, have taken a lead in labor negotiations by ratifying a contract with Artificial Intelligence (AI) protections.

“AI has the potential to impact all of our jobs,” RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 President Jack Caffey said. “That’s why we are making sure we get in front of the changes AI is bringing, so Members don’t get hurt and our contracts stay strong.”

The three-year contract delivers unprecedented wage increases, while fully maintaining the Members’ excellent health and benefit coverage, Union Representatives said.

In addition, Workers secured an increased uniform allowance, a key quality-of-life improvement that reflects the professional value of their work.

The agreement also addressed a growing concern of Membership: The impact of technology in the workplace.

Following the August 2025 opening of a new dining hall featuring AI-powered ordering kiosks and Just Walk Out grab-and-go technology, the RWDSU/UFCW saw firsthand how automation can displace experienced Staff.

Recognizing this potential threat to the Union Members at the college, RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 negotiated and secured a critical new contract that protects Members from the effects of future technological changes.

The agreement addressed a future concern: Even when jobs are not eliminated, automation can lead to arbitrary reassignments that disrupt seniority and could create difficult working conditions.

The language utilized in the contract codifies seniority protections and addresses future changes in the workplace, Union Officials said.

By securing safeguards in the agreement, RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 has set a critical standard for Union Members in the Digital Age.

This agreement will provide stability, fairness and dignity of work for the employees at Iona University, the RWSDU/UFCW said.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 Ratifies Contract with AI Protections – LaborPress

32BJ SEIU New York City Members 'Ratify Historic' Real Estate Industry Contract That Covers 34,000 Workers & Secures A $4.50-An-Hour Wage Increase, Provides A 15% Increase In Their Guaranteed Pension And More

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – Unionized Residential New York City Building Workers have overwhelmingly approved their historic new contract that covers 34,000 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Members.

Union Officials said 94% voted in favor of the contract that wins a 15% increase to guaranteed pension, protects 100% employer-paid health care, and secures $4.50-an-hour wage increases while maintaining all existing benefits, including free legal services and training programs.

The contract was reached in April (2026) after months of negotiations with the Residential Real Estate Industry, averting a Strike that would have impacted the homes of 1.5 million New Yorkers.

New York City Labor Council Editor’s Note: Read More About The Newly Ratified Contract Here & For Full Details, Go To: 32BJ SEIU+1.

Union Leaders To Be Included In A New Construction Safety Committee That's Being Created By New York City Mayor Mamdani

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - As part of his broader Block by Block housing agenda, Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced New York City will establish a new Committee on Construction Safety aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries in one of New York’s deadliest industries.

“At a moment when Working People are being pushed out of the City they built, New York cannot afford half-measures or delays,” Mamdani said in a statement announcing the plan. “We are setting the most ambitious housing production and preservation targets in the City’s modern history while also protecting tenants and homeowners, investing in public housing and ensuring the Workers building that housing have good-paying, safe jobs.”

City Officials said the Committee, expected to convene in Fall 2026, will study recurring causes of injuries and fatalities and recommend legislative, enforcement and accountability reforms.

The body will be overseen by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development Leila Bozorg, Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su and Department of Buildings Commissioner Ahmed Tigani.

The Committee will include Workers and Union Representatives, who have said some contractors evade accountability by dissolving companies after receiving stop-work orders and reopening under new names to continue bidding on City contracts.

The Mayor’s Office plans to strengthen enforcement against repeat offenders through the City’s Buildings Tech Lab, which uses data analytics to identify contractors operating unsafe sites.

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Mamdani, DOB creating construction safety committee - The Chief

New York City Fast Food, Retail Workers To Receive $1.8 Million From Settlements For Violations Of The City's Fair Workweek Law

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Harper Freeman at The Chief reports a Franchisee operating Taco Bell and Dunkin’ locations in New York City will pay $1.5 million in restitution to more than 760 Workers under a settlement reached with the City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) for violations of the City’s Fair Workweek Law, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine announced. On a livestream filmed inside City Hall while lunching on Crunchwrap Supremes, Mamdani and Levine shared that the Franchisee Salz Management LLC violated the rights of Workers across 24 Dunkin’ and Taco Bell locations in Manhattan and Queens by failing to provide the Workers with schedules 14 days in advance and failing to obtain consent for schedule changes. “The Workers didn't have predictable schedules,” Levine said. “They were forced to close the store, then open it the next day without compensation. That's why we're getting money back in their pockets.” As part of a second Fair Workweek settlement reached by DCWP, more than 60 Workers employed at two Manhattan locations of the Fashion Retailer Theory LLC will receive over $277,00. The Franchisee and Fashion Retailer will also pay $176,000 in civil penalties directly to the City for legal violations. Individual payments for some Workers covered by the settlements, Mamdani said, will be more than $10,000.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Fast food, retail workers to receive $1.8 million in from settlements - The Chief

NYSNA Nurses Hold Candlelight Vigil Outside NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital 'To Speak Out Against The Rise in Workplace Violence & To Demand A Fair Contract that Protects Both Nurses & Patients'

Sun, 31 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(BROOKLYN, NEW YORK) - New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA)-represented Nurses employed at NewYork-Presbyterian (NYP)-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital held a candlelight vigil outside the hospital last week to call attention to the rise in workplace violence.

The contract for 1,400 Nurses at the Hospital expired on April 30th and Nurses are demanding a fair contract that delivers enforceable Safe Staffing Standards, protections from workplace violence and more.

Several recent incidents of workplace harassment and violence have focused NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital Nurses on improving safety at the Brooklyn Hospital.

Earlier this month, hundreds of Nurses picketed the Hospital and spoke out, detailing recent violent incidents that have left Nurses injured and shaken.

Nurses at the candlelight vigil recounted being attacked at work and witnessing a police-involved shooting at the hospital in early January.

Several of Brooklyn’s Elected Officials, who joined NYSNA Nurses on the picket line, have sent an open letter to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital executives to “express strong support for the Nurses at your facility and to urge Hospital Administration to bargain in good faith and swiftly reach a fair contract.”

NYP-Brooklyn Methodist NYSNA President and Registered Nurse Aldrich Crispino said: “Nurses are resilient, but we also need better protection on the job and support from management when we are threatened, attacked or injured at work. We want NYP-Brooklyn Methodist to negotiate a fair contract that protects patient and Nurse safety.”

NYSNA President Nancy Hagans said: “It’s past time for NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital to negotiate a fair contract with NYSNA Nurses. Nurses in Brooklyn and everywhere deserve to work in safe conditions with staffing standards that protect their patients and practice.”

NYSNA represents more than 42,000 Members across the State and is New York’s largest Union and Professional Association for Registered Nurses.

NYSNA is an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), the country's largest and fastest-growing Union and Professional Association of Registered Nurses, with more than 225,000 Members nationwide.

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: NYSNA Nurses Hold Candlelight Vigil at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital to Highlight Workplace Violence | New York State Nurses Association

NYSNA-Provided Photo.

Condé Workers 'Reinstated After Illegal Terminations And Suspensions As Management 'Settles With The NewsGuild Of New York'

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Unionized Condé Nast Workers who were illegally fired and disciplined after taking part in a “march on the boss” in November 2025 have been vindicated as part of a substantial agreement won by The NewsGuild of New York.

“Our fight as a Union is about more than a single contract. It is about ensuring Workers’ rights to a just workplace,” NewsGuild of New York President Susan DeCarava said. “When employers attempt to undermine our rights, we will organize, fight back and hold them accountable. This settlement sends a forceful message: Workers united in solidarity have the power to push back against bully Union-Busting bosses and demand their workplaces be governed by respect rather than fear.”

Condé Nast management illegally terminated four Condé Union Leaders and suspended five others for coming together to demand answers from executives at 1 World Trade Center about abrupt layoffs at multiple brands including WIRED and the consolidation at Teen Vogue.

By abruptly, and unlawfully, firing and suspending nine Employees, management violated the Union Members’ contractual Just Cause protections, as well as Federal Labor Law to engage in protected concerted activity as Workers.

The NewsGuild of New York immediately filed grievances related to the firings and suspensions, as well as Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) Charges at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Guild Members at Condé Nast were also supported by NewsGuild parent Union - the Communications Workers of America (CWA), through a Member Relief Fund Program that provides aid to Workers targeted by Union Busting.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: CONDÉ WORKERS REINSTATED AFTER ILLEGAL TERMINATIONS AND SUSPENSIONS; MANAGEMENT SETTLES WITH NYGUILD

NYCOSH's 2026 'Deadly Skyline' Report 'Reveals High Numbers Of Construction Fatalities Across The State' & 'Outlines Actionable Recommendations To Help Prevent Future Injuries & Deaths While Creating Safer Job Sites Throughout New York'

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – The New York Committee for Occupational Safety & Health (NYCOSH) has released its annual Construction Fatality Report - The 2026 Deadly Skyline Report, which reveals high numbers of construction fatalities throughout New York State. In 2024, 55 Construction Workers died on the job across New York State, down from a peak of 74 deaths in 2023, but still high among totals recorded over the past decade. Since 2015, at least 587 Construction Workers have died on the job Statewide. In New York City alone, 19 Construction Workers died in 2024, following 30 deaths in 2023 - the highest single-year total in the City in the decade covered by the report. The 2026 report examines the latest construction fatality data, uncovering systemic safety failures that continue to place Workers at risk, particularly Immigrant and Latinx Workers. The report also outlines actionable recommendations to help prevent future injuries and deaths while creating safer job sites throughout New York.

NYCOSH 2026 Deadly Skyline Report - Key Findings:

Fatalities & Trends:

2024 totals: 55 Construction Worker deaths Statewide (down from 74 in 2023) and 19 in New York City (down from 30 in 2023) www.worksafety247.com+1.
New York City’s 2024 fatality rate was 9.4 per 100,000 and New York State’s was 8.9 per 100,000 www.worksafety247.com.
Since 2015, at least 587 Construction Workers have died Statewide New York City Central Labor Council.
In New York City, 2024 saw the highest single-year total in a decade New York City Central Labor Council.

Heat-Related Deaths:

In 2024, four construction fatalities in New York State were linked to heat events (temperatures ≥80°F) www.worksafety247.com+1.
Two occurred in New York City: One in Manhattan at 83°F and another in Long Island City at 86°F Portside.
Heat stress can begin at temperatures below 87°F. Three of the four heat-related deaths happened in that range Portside.
NYCOSH urges passage of the TEMP Act to mandate water access, rest breaks, shade and other protections during dangerous heat www.worksafety247.com.

Demographics & Risk:

Latinx Workers make up ~18.6% of NY State’s Workforce, but accounted for 25.8% of 2024 fatalities www.worksafety247.com.
They are over-represented among Immigrant and Non-Union Workers, often in Non-Union job sites with weaker enforcement s3.amazonaws.com.

Systemic Issues:

Common causes include inadequate fall protection, insufficient training, unsafe work conditions and pressure to work quickly s3.amazonaws.com.
OSHA (U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration) inspection activity remains below pre-pandemic levels and fear of reporting is high s3.amazonaws.com.

Recommendations:

Strengthen workplace safety standards and enforcement.
Improve training for high-risk demographics.
Prevent construction owners tied to incidents from obtaining permits or public funds www.worksafety247.com.
Implement heat safety measures under the TEMP Act.
Increase inspections and accountability in Non-Union sites.

The Bottom Line: While fatalities have declined slightly from 2023, the 2026 report warns that preventable deaths remain alarmingly high, especially among Latinx Workers and in heat-exposed conditions. NYCOSH calls for structural reforms, stronger enforcement and targeted protections to reduce future risks NYCOSH+2.

To Directly Access This Report, Go To: NYCOSH-Construction-Fatalities-Report-2026_final.pdf

"Students Deserve To Be Educated On The History Of Organized Workers In Our Country; It's Important To Champion Awareness For Workers' 'Collective Power'" - The NYC Council Passes A Resolution To Mark The Month Of May As Labor History Month

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Under a City Council resolution that was just passed, the Department of Education (DOE) would mark May as Labor History Month in public schools across New York City.

The month of May includes International Workers Day, known as May Day, celebrated every May 1st, that honors the commemorates the 1886 Haymarket Riot in Chicago.

The resolution was sponsored by Council Member Alexa Aviles who called it “crucial” to pass so that young Workers can have knowledge of past labor struggles when they enter the workforce.

“We owe so much to the Labor Leaders of history who have stood up to demand protections we take for granted now - two-day weekends, Child Labor Laws and workplace safety protections, to name a few. Students deserve to be educated on the history of Organized Workers in our country. It’s important to champion awareness for Workers' collective power,” she said.

The resolution’s passage does not automatically create the commemorative month.

In order for Labor History Month to become official, the DOE would have to establish the designation itself.

New Yorkers can fill out a form to express support for the DOE doing so on-line.

According to a CUNY (City University of New York) School of Labor and Urban studies report published last year, just under 22% of Workers in New York City are Members of Labor Unions, slightly higher than the statewide figure of 21.5% - that’s more than double the national figure of 10%.

The majority of Unionized Workers in both the City and the State are part of the Public Sector, as over 65% of Civil Servants in the City and State are Unionized - while just 11.6% and 13.7% of Workers in the Private Sector are Unionized in the State and City, respectively.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Council passes resolution to mark May as Labor History Month - The Chief

Graphic Courtesy Of Traliant.com.

Home Care Workers, Labor & Disability Activists 'Demand' The New York City Council 'Reject' Intro. 303 - Legislation 'That Would Jeopardize Workers' Jobs, Benefits & Care For Thousands Of Disabled New Yorkers, If Passed'

Sat, 23 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) District Council 37, Home Care Employees Local 389, Disability Advocates and Labor Allies rallied at City Hall Park to urge the New York City Council to reject Intro. 303, legislation that would jeopardize Workers’ jobs, benefits and care for thousands of disabled New Yorkers - if passed.

The proposed Bill aims to eliminate 24-hour shifts and institute two split shifts of 12 hours in an attempt to protect Workers from wage exploitation.

The measure, while well-intentioned, would conflict with Medicaid requirements and as written does not provide a funding solution.

Home care services in New York City are regulated and paid for by the State.

The majority of the 5,000 Home Care Workers represented by District Council 37 are Women of Color, specifically Black Workers, who depend on Medicaid-funded shifts to support themselves and their families.

Intro. 303 would also cause a disruption in care for approximately 13,000 severely-disabled New Yorkers who rely on Home Health Aides for assistance and their quality of life.

Without Medicaid coverage for split 12-hour shifts, some patients could be forced into hospitals or nursing homes, losing the continuity and personal care provided by these Workers.

Home Care Employees Local 389 President Margaret Glover, a Home Care Worker for last 46 years, said: “You don’t know what it’s like to work as a Home Care Worker, to see our clients who need our help for their basic needs- we do this work because we want to help them. A lot of my Members work (24)-hour shifts and are worried about what losing those shifts will mean for their families and the clients they support. We do not want this Bill.”

AFSCME District Council 37 Executive Director Henry Garrido said: “We oppose any legislation that will upend the lives of thousands of hard-working Caregivers and their families, as well as the clients who rely on this high standard of personal care, without any funding secured to pay for these changes. We have a duty to stand not only with our Members in the Home Care Sector to fight this legislation, but also to the communities they serve.”

New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council President Brendan Griffith said: “Home Care Workers deserve fair pay, respect on the job and protection from the exploitation and abuse which we know is unfortunately too common. Home Care Aides are overwhelmingly Women of Color, and the Labor Movement has spent decades fighting for stronger conditions and protections in this industry. But you can’t fix a flawed system by implementing new requirements without a sustained funding solution and hoping everything works itself out - and that is exactly what Intro. (303) would do. If we’re going to make major changes to how home care works in this City, it needs to be done with the state involved, appropriate resources and all stakeholders involved as part of the effort.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Home Care Workers, Labor, and Disability Activists Demand New York City Council Reject Intro. 303 - District Council 37

Unionized New York City Hotel Housekeepers 'Will Earn More Than $100,000 Under A Historic & New Union Contract'

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – The International Business Times reports Unionized Hotel Housekeepers in New York City will earn more than $100,000 annually under a groundbreaking and new contract reached between the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council (HTC) and the Hotel Industry of New York City, marking a significant victory for Workers grappling with the City's soaring cost of living. The contract covers 25,000 Workers in more than 300 Hotels, including major properties in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. The deal includes substantial wage increases, improved benefits and enhanced working conditions for thousands of Housekeepers and other Hotel Employees. HTC President Peter Ward described it as one of the most transformative contracts in the sector's history: "This is a game-changer for Working People in this City. Housekeepers are the backbone of New York's Hospitality Industry. They deserve pay that reflects the true cost of living here and the hard, physical work they do every single day."

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: NYC Hotel Housekeepers to Earn Over $100K Under Historic New Union Contract

Teamsters With The Brotherhood Of Locomotive Engineers And Trainmen & Their Union Coalition 'Win Historic Strike At The Long Island Railroad - 3,500 Worker Walkout 'Forces LIRR To Offer Fair' Contract

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – Teamsters with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) and their Union Coalition have reached a tentative contract agreement with the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) to end the Carrier’s first Strike in more than three decades.

The LIRR is the busiest Commuter Railroad in America, with 300,000 daily passengers.

The Teamsters represent over 500 of the LIRR’s Locomotive Engineers.

The agreement provides Workers with raises that maintain their standard of living while strengthening work rules and improving benefits, Union Officials said.

The Coalition spent years bargaining with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for a new agreement.

The process included two Presidential Emergency Boards that ruled in favor of the Unions.

In that time, Workers went without raises as inflation ate away their standard of living.

The thousands of Workers from five Unions were forced to Strike by the MTA’s refusal to offer them a fair contract.

BLET Teamsters and their Coalition partners set up picket lines at major LIRR hubs immediately after midnight on Saturday, May 16th.

Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien said: “BLET Teamsters and their Brothers and Sisters across four other Unions just showed this entire country what ‘Worker Solidarity looks like in action.’ These Union Railroaders made it clear from the start they would not accept a deal that shortchanged them and undercut their standard of living. For three long days they bravely withheld their labor on picket lines across the New York Metropolitan Area. Every Worker in America is reminded of what can be achieved through courage and conviction to fight for a better way of life.”

The Teamsters represents 1.3 million Members in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: BLET Teamsters & Union Coalition Win Historic Strike at LIRR - International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Five Unions Strike The Long Island Railroad After Contract Negotiations On A New Contract 'Fail By Deadline, Causing The First Strike At The Carrier In 32 Years'

Sat, 16 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK) - After hours of last-minute negotiations, no agreement on wage increases was reached between a coalition of five unions and the Long Island Railroad (LIRR).

The coalition of Unions has gone more than three years without raises throughout the process of bargaining for a new contract.

This is the first Strike at the carrier in 32 years.

In accordance with the terms of the Railway Labor Act, the Coalition’s 3,500 Members then went on Strike just after midnight today (Saturday, May 16th).

The LIRR is the Nation’s busiest Commuter Railroad with 300,000 daily passengers.

The LIRR is owned and operated by the Metropolitan Transit Agency (MTA).

The Labor Coalition includes the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS), the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Transportation Communications Union (TCU).

As part of the negotiating process, both parties argued their case before two Federally-appointed Presidential Emergency Boards (PEB).

Both Boards sided with the Labor Coalition as having the most reasonable contract offer.

BLET and the Teamsters Rail Conference President Mark Wallace said: “This Strike would not have happened if the MTA and LIRR offered our Members the reasonable terms the Government recommended multiple times. But management refused. We hope (the) LIRR gets serious soon to avoid further unnecessary disruptions for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. They know where to find us when they’re ready: On the streets.”

Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien said: “The LIRR owns this Strike. Union Workers have sacrificed so much for the railroad for years while consistently bargaining in good faith for a fair contract. Hundreds of thousands of commuters rely on our Members’ labor every day. The LIRR is stranding passengers while denying wages, benefits and respect to BLET Teamsters and other hard-working Union Members. All (1.3 million) Members of the Teamsters Union are standing with every Worker on Strike. We will win this fight and the LIRR will give these essential Workers the contract they’ve earned.”

For More On This Labor News Report, Go To: BLET members on strike at Long Island Railroad - Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen And New York commuter rail system ceases operations as workers strike | AP News

NewsGuild Of NY-Represented Journalists Employed At Sports Illustrated Win New Contract With Publisher Minute Media - Agreement Includes AI 'Guardrails,' 'Increased' Family Leave, Remote 'Work Protections,' 'Higher' Salary Floors & More

Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Unionized Journalists employed at Sports Illustrated (SI) have won a new three-year contract that raises salary floors, saves on health care, protects remote work and enshrines protections on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Sports Illustrated Union, which represents 64 Journalists at the legendary Sports Media Organization, ratified the contract deal with Publisher Minute Media that wrapped up nearly a year and a half of bargaining with Minute, which took over as Publisher in 2024 after the previous Publisher, The Arena Group, lost its license to publish SI.

“This contract upholds the principles and protections we fought so hard for four years ago,” says Dan Falkenheim, a Fact Checker and the SI Union’s Unit Chair. “After our Members have experienced more than their fair share of instability because of ownership changes beyond our control, we are thrilled to have a contract that values our work and provides a strong foundation for Sports Illustrated’s future at Minute Media.”

Highlights of the deal include: Every Unit Member is now earning $70,000 or more, and the average member gets a raise of 5.22% upon ratification, with 3% guaranteed increases in 2027 and 2028; The contract enshrines Minute Media’s commitment that SI’s journalism must be created by humans. The company must follow journalistic ethics and contractual editorial integrity protections if it uses AI for editorial work, and a Unit Employee will sit on the company’s AI Board; Current Employees at SI, who have been working remotely since 2020, can stay remote; Service at prior operators of SI is credited in full, and long-time Employees are able to earn additional severance beyond the severance cap of 26 weeks; The contract preserves Just Cause Protections and provides for enhanced severance if a layoff is due to AI or out of seniority order; and The deal increases parental leave (to 16 weeks for primary caregivers and 12 weeks for secondary caregivers), caps annual increases on medical premiums, lowers premiums for family plans and provides new funding for HSAs on high-deductible plans.

NewsGuild of New York President Susan DeCarava said: “Thoroughout the transition between Publishers, our Members at Sports Illustrated remained focused on what was most important: Dedication to one another and to the value of their work. It is this solidarity that won us a strong new contract and which allows our Members to continue to produce the quality journalism for which they are known.”

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: NewsGuild of NY-represented journalists at Sports Illustrated win new contract with publisher Minute Media

IBEW Local 3 Is Working With New York City To Construct Solar Rooftops On Its Public Schools - Currently, 130 Are Done 'With Another 86 More In Progress'

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 3 is playing a big role in New York City’s Solar Schools Program, where its highly-trained-and-skilled Members have completed installation of 130 solar rooftops on the City’s Public Schools since the passage of Local Law 99 a year and a half ago.

New York City Public Schools (NYCPS), the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) recently celebrated a milestone in the City’s Solar Schools Program.

Officials say the 130th installation at Marie Curie High School in the Bronx will generate more than 50% of the school’s annual energy needs and also marked the addition of 27.5 Megawatts (MW) to the City’s solar energy generation capacity on Public School property, with the ultimate goal of 100 MW by 2030 and 150 MW by 2035.

IBEW Local 3 Business Manager Christopher Erikson, Jr. said: “For the last several years, DCAS has been a great partner to Local (3) and our signatory contractors, as they’ve continued to expand key solar energy infrastructure on schools throughout the City. Our highly-trained Union Electricians bring the expertise needed to build complex projects like the installation at Marie Curie High School, helping the City tackle the dual climate and energy crises we face. DCAS’s commitment to using Union Labor ensures the work associated leads not to short-term, dead-end solar installer jobs but family-sustaining, Middle-Class Union careers for New Yorkers.”

For More On This Labor News Report, Go To: IBEW 3 Working with NYC to Construct Solar Rooftops on Schools – LaborPress And NYC Public Schools Add 130 Solar Rooftop Arrays, 86 More in Progress | Local Union No. 3 IBEW

"The SEIU Family, The Labor Movement And The Global Fight For Social Justice Have Lost A Giant" - 1199 Service Employees International Union United Healthcare Workers East President George Gresham Passes Away After A Long Illness

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Long-time Service Employees International Union United (SEIU) Healthcare Workers East President George Gresham has passed after a long illness. Gresham, who was born in 1955, began his career in Organized Labor as a Rank-and-File Members who worked at Presbyterian Hospital in New York City before rising to lead the largest Health Care Local Union in the U.S. He tirelessly advocated for Workers’ Rights, Social Justice and Economic Equality and his leadership helped secure industry-leading contracts and improved working conditions for more than 450,000 Health Care Workers up and down the East Coast. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul called him a “legendary Labor Leader” whose voice shaped the State’s Labor Movement and strengthened the rights of Health Care Workers. The State Assembly highlighted his decades-long commitment to progressive causes and Social Justice. Gresham’s legacy will be remembered not only for his professional achievements, but also for his mentorship, moral leadership and dedication to empowering Working Families. His impact continues to resonate in the Labor Movement and among the Health Care Workers whose lives he improved.

SEIU International President April Verrett released the following statement:

The SEIU Family, the Labor Movement and the global fight for Social Justice have lost a giant.

It is with a heavy heart and profound gratitude for his life of leadership that we mourn the passing of George Gresham, former President of 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

George was more than a Labor Leader.

He was the moral compass of our movement.

From his humble beginnings in the Housekeeping Department at Presbyterian Hospital to leading the largest Health Care Local in the Nation, George’s journey embodied the very essence of the Union Power he spent four decades building.

He never forgot where he came from and he never stopped fighting for those who are too often left behind.

Under George’s visionary leadership, 1199SEIU was a powerhouse for progressive change.

He understood that the fight for Economic Justice is inseparable from the fight for Racial, Immigrant and Social Justice.

He didn’t just win industry-leading contracts, he won dignity, respect and a voice for over 450,000 Health Care Workers across the East Coast.

On a personal note, George was family to so many of us.

He was a mentor, a Brother and a source of unwavering strength to me and countless others.

His wisdom was matched only by his kindness.

He taught us that to lead is to serve and that our greatest strength lies in our unity.

Because George chose to fight, generations of Working Families will live with greater dignity, opportunity and security.

George has joined the ancestors, but his legacy lives on in every Home Care Worker who now earns a living wage, every Nursing Home Worker providing care in a safer environment, and every Hospital Worker who stands a little taller because they have a strong Union contract.

Our hearts go out to George’s family, his loved ones and the entire 1199 SEIU Membership.

We honor him not just with our words, but by recommitting ourselves to the work he loved so dearly.

Mayor Mamdani 'Celebrates New York City's Garment Workers' On Met Gala Monday - 'Because Fashion Is More Than Clothes, It's The People Who Made Them'

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Steff Yotka at i-D reports New York City was abuzz with celebrities, designers, stylists and fans at the annual Met Gala on Monday night (May 5th), which was hosted by the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. It is, without question, the most popular fashion event in the world, celebrating celebrity, design and creativity alongside luxury and exclusivity. But what about the people whose labor - behind-the-scenes, to make the glamour real? “The Fashion Industry is made possible by the thousands of Workers behind the scenes - Seamstresses, Tailors, Retail Workers, Delivery Drivers - whose immense talent and dedication deserves to be celebrated,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani tells i-D, exclusively. The Mayor’s Office spotlighted six local Fashion Industry Professionals in a portrait series by Kara McCurdy: Tailor and Union Organizer Christopher Anderson; Macy’s Employee and Union Organizer Earnestine Gay; Tailor Hafeez Raza; Former Amazon Delivery Employees; Delivery Protection Act Activists Latrice Johnson and Lamont Hopewell; and tailor Sonia Castrejón. “From true love found on the picket line, to an entrepreneur running a tailoring school out of her Brooklyn basement, we’re proud to feature the stories of these hard-working New Yorkers who make our City’s Fashion Industry second to none,” the Mayor continues. Anderson, a Master Tailor at Saks and a Union Organizer who encourages their colleagues and younger employees to fight for equality, said: “Union Workers, especially Garment Workers, built this country.”

To Read This Unique & Important Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Mayor Mamdani Celebrates New York City’s Garment Workers on Met Gala Monday

Workers Employed At New York City's Two Largest Prison Re-Entry Organizations Unionize, Call For 'Improved' Wages, Benefits & Working Conditions

Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The Chief reports more than 600 Workers from New York City’s two largest Prison Re-Entry Organizations have gone public with their Unionization efforts. Staff at Fortune Society and the Osborne Association are calling for improved wages, benefits and working conditions. The two Unions represent more than 400 Workers at Fortune Society and around 200 Workers at the Osborne Association. They’re joining forces in Local 153 of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU). Osborne Association’s Workers began organizing last Summer and their peers at Fortune Society followed in the Fall. Many of them went through the Justice System themselves. Caleb Knight, the Creative Arts Senior Associate at Fortune Society, is among the 50% of the organization’s Staff with a history in the Justice System: “We are the lifeblood of the agency. We’re here because ‘we care and believe’ in the work we do. This is why we’re building our Union, because we as Workers deserve the same respect, dignity and care that we show to the participants we work with.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Workers at city’s two largest prison re-entry organizations unionize - The Chief

'The Clock Is Ticking:' 'Strike Looms' As Unionized LIRR Workers 'Face Another Year Without A Raise'

Sun, 03 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Matthew Euzarraga at PIX 11 reports there are just over two weeks until a potential Strike by Unionized Long Island Railroad (LIRR) Workers, who’ve gone three years without a raise. Union Leaders met last week with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) following heated discussions at a recent Board meeting. During the public comment period, Gil Lang, who serves as General Chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) for the LIRR, criticized the MTA for its lack of urgency. He spoke on behalf of the five Unions currently engaged in contract negotiations. Currently, the BLET and four other Unions - the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; the Transportation Communications Union; the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; and the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen - are trying to hammer out new contract agreements.

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: LIRR strike looms as MTA and unions at odds over wage increase

New York City Construction Workers 'Who Tragically Lost Their Lives On The Job Are Remembered' At The Annual Hardhat Mass Held At St. Patrick's Cathedral

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Hundreds of New York City Building and Construction Trades Workers processed into St Patrick's Cathedral in hardhats earlier this week, gathering for the annual Memorial Mass and Procession honoring their fellow Workers who have tragically died on the job over the past year. It was the 18th annual mass which has taken place at St. Patrick's since the crane collapse in March 2008 that claimed seven lives, six of them from the industry. A row of chairs was positioned above the pulpit steps, each displaying a white hard hat with the name of a lost Construction Worker, along with a red rose. At least 10 Workers lost their lives on the job this year. Families of the deceased who were in attendance were invited to come up at the end of the Mass to collect the hard hat and rose in memory of their loved one. The Mass, which is bilingual (English and Spanish) was led by Father Brian Jordan, the Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish and Chaplain to the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, and included reflection on the critical importance of the U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the resources available through the newly-established Building Trades Peer Support Network, and the disproportionate impact on Latino, Immigrant and Undocumented Workers, who often face exploitation and fear of deportation.

New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council Editor’s Note: Click here to read more about the risks that New York building and construction trades workers face every day in NYCOSH's annual construction fatality report, "Deadly Skyline."

Photos Courtesy Of The NYC Buildings Facebook Page (Click Here For More Photos: Facebook)

"Like Nailing Jell-O To A Wall" - 'Why Unions Are Struggling To Protect Journalists' Rights In The Age Of Artificial Intelligence'

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Gretel Kahn at the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism reports: Will AI (Artificial Intelligence) come for my job? This is the question at the heart of AI anxieties across many industries right now. For Journalists, this question is constantly being re-pondered and re-examined as more companies are incorporating AI into their workflows. AI can help with research and background. It can do transcriptions and translations, generate illustrations, and produce podcasts with non-human hosts. It can now even write and edit pieces itself. And yet, AI-related job cuts in Journalism seem to be marginal - for now. Around two-thirds of the Media Managers the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism surveyed for its Trends and Predictions report said they haven’t cut any jobs due to AI. This might be starting to change. Earlier this month, the Union that represents Associated Press Journalists said that more than 120 Staff Members received buyout offers, just as the company expressed its intention to pivot toward AI and video. But changes are going beyond potential job cuts. AI adoption is widespread and Journalists are protecting themselves from becoming collateral damage in this new era of disruption. As usual, things are moving especially fast in the U.S. where Unionized workers are revolting against their company’s efforts to introduce AI in their workflows. Unions at three newspapers - The Miami Herald, The Sacramento Bee and The Kansas City Star - filed grievances against their parent company McClatchy over the implementation of a new AI tool.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: “Like nailing jell-o to a wall”: Why unions are struggling to protect journalists’ rights in the age of AI | Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism

Graphic Courtesy Of The Reuters Institute For The Study Of Journalism.

Hachette Book Group Employees 'Announce Largest Unionization Campaign In Trade Publisher History' With The NewsGuild-CWA

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The Employees of Hachette Book Group (HBG), the third-largest Trade Publisher in the U.S., have announced they have Unionized with Washington-Baltimore NewsGuild-Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 32035 in order to ensure better benefits, protections and rights for Workers - as well as increased equity, transparency and agency in the workplace.

The Hachette Workers Coalition (HWC) is the largest Union in Trade Publisher History, inclusive of Workers in every physical office and remote location, across the U.S. and Canada.

The HWC demands a livable wage regardless of work location, better working conditions, a cap on workload hours, a clear and neutral grievance process, Artificial Intelligence (AI) protections, follow-through on Diversity, Equity and Inclusions (DEI) policies, and more.

The Hachette Workers Coalition has signed hundreds of cards in support of forming a Union at HBG.

For too long, Hachette Employees have been forced to accept sub-standard working conditions, overwhelming workloads, and compensation not commensurate with the exceptional success and growth that Workers have brought HBG.

The Union intends to actualize the Hachette Book Group mission pillars of Understanding Consumers, Changing the Story, Growth Mindset, and Owner Mentality for the benefit of the Workers and book lovers - not only the corporate shareholders.

From the successful campaign canceling HBG’s publication of Woody Allen’s memoir in 2020 to the powerful campaign amending return-to-office work in 2022, HBG Workers know how to organize and advocate in their own best interests.

The way Hachette Book Group and the Book Publishing Industry as a whole currently functions - where shareholder profit is prioritized over product quality and Workers’ Rights - is unsustainable.

HBG Designer Andy Wang said: “As Employees of the Hachette Book Group, we take great pride in working with talented authors and artists to create books that spark conversations, educate and inspire. As united Members of the Hachette Workers Coalition, we reject our current industry model, which actively undermines the long-term development of Employees’ skills and their ability to support themselves and their families in pursuit of unsustainable profit-driven growth. Both across the Publishing Industry - and especially at HBG, we have felt the crush of increased workloads while our compensation, career growth and opportunities have stagnated. Instead, leadership has continued to spin the revolving door with callously-handled layoffs, hushed dismissals and has regressed on common-sense policies such as the right to work from home, or to even have your own desk!”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Hachette Book Group employees announce largest unionization campaign in trade publisher history with NewsGuild | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

St. John's Faculty Unions 'Take Legal Action Against The Administration' - AAUP & FA 'File Multiple ULP Charges After University Leadership Ignores' Unions

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Nicholas St. Cyr at The Torch reports that after more than two months after St. John’s University’s Administration’s decision to no longer recognize the Unions during the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiation process, they have decided to take legal action. The St. John’s Chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and the Faculty Association (FA) have filed Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) offenses with the New York State’s Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) against University President Reverend Brian J. Shanley and the University’s Board of Trustees. The Unions have played a role in the St. John’s community for 56 years, but their involvement has been challenged during the most recent negotiations that have left Faculty and Staff working without a contract for almost 300 days. They argue Shanley’s dismissal of Union recognition and decision to end negotiations with them is not only unlawful - but also goes against the University’s mission. “Father Shanley has torn up our Union contract, attacked the rights of our Faculty and unlawfully abandoned our negotiations despite fifty-six years as the State-certified and University-recognized Faculty Unions at SJU,” SJU-AAUP Acting President & SJU Professor Sophie Bell said. “SJU is abandoning the very values our University was founded on and our Faculty impart to students every single day.” Union Members also accuse the University Administration of aggressively threatening and targeting Faculty who attended AAUP-hosted demonstrations in response to the Board of Trustees’ initial decision. Apart from this alleged violation of Labor Rights, they also call into question the creation and recruitment of a working group to unilaterally change University employment without negotiation, while bypassing the Unions.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: St. John’s Faculty Unions Take Legal Action Against Administration – The Torch

Unions Meet With Mamdani Team Over Protest 'Buffer Zone' Bill

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Claudia Irizarry Aponte and Katie Honan at The City report City Hall Officials met with Union Leaders who are pushing Mayor Zohran Mamdani to veto a controversial City Council Bill that would establish anti-protest buffer zones around schools and educational facilities. A representative of Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su met via video call with leaders of more than a half a dozen Unions and the New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council, according to multiple sources who were at the meeting or briefed on the talks. Su’s representative gave no indication whether Mamdani would issue a veto, according to multiple sources. Last month the Council approved two Bills creating protest buffer zones, one affecting Houses of Worship and the other targeting schools and “educational facilities.” The meeting came amid a growing pressure campaign from Organized Labor and other allies of Mamdani to veto the Bill. Several Labor and community groups had also sent a letter urging him to veto the Bill, describing it as a “radical overreach” that limits free speech and endangers New Yorkers. Two Unions that represent large numbers of college and University Teaching Staff - United Auto Workers (UAW) Region 9A and Professional Staff Congress/City University of New York - are leading the opposition to the Bills, claiming that they would restrict their rights to Strike or protest in their workplace.

For More On This Labor News Report, Go To: Unions met with Mamdani team over protest ‘buffer zone’ bill

CUNY File Photo.

Unions 'Urge' Governor Hochul 'To Tax The Rich' - Letter Signed By DC37, HTC & More 'Pushes For Several Revenue-Raising Initiatives'

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Harper Freeman at The Chief reports New York City Labor is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to tax the rich. Nearly a dozen Unions have signed a letter that was sent to Hochul urging her to get behind revenue-raising measures proposed in the one-house budgets of the State Assembly and State Senate - as well as other additional tax increases. Raising taxes on New York State’s wealthy has been a key priority for Mayor Zohran Mamdani amid a $5.4 billion City budget gap, but Hochul has been resistant to the measures during a year she is campaigning for re-election. However, Hochul has proposed a pied-à-terre tax on luxury second homes valued at over $5 million that could raise $500 million a year for New York City, signaling some flexibility on tax increases. While appreciative, the Unions are calling for even more including a bump in the Statewide corporate tax, the personal income tax, the City corporate tax and additional loophole closures and revenue-raising programs. “The agreement on a pied-à-terre tax in New York City was an important first step but doesn’t address New Yorkers’ needs or municipal shortfalls,” the letter reads “At this pivotal moment in the budget process, New York’s leaders face a clear choice: Stand with Working Families confronting an escalating affordability crisis or protect the ultra-wealthy and most profitable corporations that have long avoided paying what they owe.” The signatories include District Council 37, and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, politically powerful establishment Unions that had not publicly backed tax increases this year until the letter was released. Other Unions that signed on are the New York State Nurses Association, Communication Workers of America (CWA) District 1 and CWA Local 1180 - as well as progressive-leaning Unions like the Professional Staff Congress, United Auto Workers Region 9A, the Committee of Interns and Residents-Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and Doctors Council SEIU. Raising the statewide corporate tax rate to 9%, as proposed by the State Senate, increasing personal income taxes for those over $5 million and making three new brackets for those making between $10 million and $25 million, $25 million and $100 million, and over $100 million, as proposed by the State Assembly, as well as raising the City’s corporate tax rate over 10%, would altogether raise $6.75 billion a year, the Unions wrote. By adjusting the State Pass Through Entity Tax, ending the gold bullion sales tax exemption and increasing the mansion tax could raise more than $3.5 billion more.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Unions urge Hochul to tax the rich - The Chief

Scientific American Editorial Workers 'Go Union' With Writers Guild Of America East

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – Reporters, Editors, Producers and other Professionals involved in producing a successful print and digital product at Scientific American have Unionized with the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), which represents more than 7,500 Members working in film, television, news, podcasts and on-line media.

Scientific American’s 40-Member Bargaining Unit has called on Springer Nature management to voluntarily recognize their Union, without delay or division.

An overwhelming majority of the Unit signed Union Cards and asked management to recognize their Union on Monday, April 13th.

In a “Why We’re Organizing” letter to management, the SciAm Union wrote, in part: “We, the Employees of Scientific American, are excited to share that we are Unionizing with the Writers Guild of America East. We are the Reporters, Editors, Producers, Designers and other Professionals involved in producing a successful print and digital product. Our journalism reaches millions of readers, listeners and viewers, and we take pride in the vital role we play in communicating scientific discovery to the public. To sustain this work and the impact it has for our audience, we request voluntary recognition of our Union. By forming a Union, we aim to create a transparent, equitable and collaborative framework for addressing workplace issues. These issues include compensation, workload, job security, editorial independence and career development. We also intend to establish clear expectations and protections around workplace conduct, respect and professional boundaries. We believe these measures are essential not only to ensure the well-being of Employees but also to maintain the quality, credibility and impact of our journalism.”

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Scientific American Unionizes with WGA East, Demands Voluntary Recognition | Press Room

Strike Averted: 32BJ SEIU-Represented New York City Doormen, Porters & Maintenance Workers Reach Tentative Contract Agreement With Building Owners, 'New Four-Year Deal Would Give Doormen Yearly Wage Increases'

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Michelle Kaske at Bloomberg reports New York City Doormen and building owners have reached a potential agreement on wage and benefit increases, avoiding a possible Strike as soon as April 21st that would have upended day-to-day operations at 3,500 co-ops, condos and apartment properties. The current contract is set to expire late Monday night (April 20th). 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU), which represents 34,000 Doormen, Porters and Maintenance Workers across New York City, and the Realty Advisory Board on Labor Relations have been in ongoing negotiations. During contract discussions, Workers stressed the need for wage increases that would keep up with rising prices on groceries, gas and other household needs. The potential new four-year contract will give Employees wage increases every year, so that they’re making $4.50 more per hour in the last year of the agreement compared to now. A Doorman making $62,000 a year now will earn $9,000 more in the final year. Monthly pension checks for future Retirees will increase by 15%. Union Members will vote on the new contract over the next month and 32BJ SEIU will begin counting the ballots on May 28th.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: NYC doormen, building owners land tentative deal to avoid strike