June 6, 2022

NY State Division on Human Rights Alleges Pregnancy-related Discrimination at Amazon

In May, the New York State Division on Human Rights filed a formal complaint against Amazon, alleging discriminatory practices against pregnant or disabled workers. The complaint argues that instead of providing reasonable accommodation for its workers, Amazon forces them to take unpaid leave.

In further detail, the report suggests that Amazon consultants have identified reasonable accommodations that would allow workers with disabilities to continue performing their functions without undue burden. However, despite this knowledge, company officials continue to pursue a policy of forced unpaid leave rather than internally-identified accommodations.

Practically, the Division seeks a ruling that requires the company to cease discriminatory practices and adopt policies of accommodation. Additionally, it would require company employees to familiarize themselves with state human rights laws. The Division also has the authority to conduct investigations into the company's practices if it chooses.

Amazon is the nation’s second largest private employer and operates 23 facilities in the state of New York.

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Cryptocurrency as Wages? NYC Mayor Eric Adams Buys In, But It’s Not That Simple.

February 28, 2022
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When New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, announced he was taking his first three paychecks in the form of Bitcoin, it might have been a publicity stunt, and one that backfired as Bitcoin prices took a nosedive, but it has highlighted a new means of employee compensation that is potentially on the horizon.

Bill to Ban Forced Arbitration in Sexual Misconduct Cases Passes the Senate

February 14, 2022
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Arbitration clauses are often buried deep in employment contracts, and many employees don’t know what they’re agreeing too or don’t fully understand what arbitration means. These clauses force employees with claims against their employer to bring them to arbitration—a private process which is often fully funded by the employer itself.

Workers Still Lack Security Despite Tight Labor Markets

February 9, 2022
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The labor market is exceptionally tight, a scenario which has converged over the last six months with what economists are calling the Great Resignation, with a record number of workers quitting in November. In the popular media, the narrative emerging from this phenomenon is one in which workers are in possession of more power than they have been for quite a while, which has resulted in an increase in wages, especially for the working class. The power, however, ultimately remains in the hands of bosses, and many workers’ experiences do not neatly coincide with the narrative.

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