Amazon CEO Andy Jassy Violated Labor Law with Anti-Union Comments, NLRB Judge Rules

On Wednesday, May 1st, a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge ruled that Amazon CEO Andy Jassy violated federal labor law in his statements to media outlets regarding unionization efforts at the company.

NLRB administrative law judge Brian Gee cited comments made by Jassy in 2022 during interviews with CNBC's "Squawk Box," Bloomberg Television, and at The New York Times' Dealbook conference. These interviews coincided with an increase in union campaigns in Amazon's warehouse and delivery operations.

Jassy's remarks in these interviews suggested that if employees were to vote in favor of a union, they may face reduced empowerment in the workplace, leading to a slower and more bureaucratic environment. He also implied that without a union, the workplace would not be bureaucratic or slow.

Ruling and Response

Judge Brian Gee stated that Jassy's comments threatened employees and violated labor laws by suggesting that they would be less empowered and face challenges in getting tasks done quickly if they chose to unionize. The NLRB filed a complaint against Amazon and Jassy in October 2022. In response to the ruling, an Amazon spokesperson expressed disagreement with the NLRB's decision and confirmed the company's intention to appeal.

Amazon spokesperson Mary Kate Paradis stated that the company disagrees with the ruling and intends to appeal, emphasizing the importance of free speech rights. The judge's recommendation includes requiring Amazon to "cease and desist" from making similar comments in the future, along with the distribution of a notice about the order to employees nationwide. The ruling highlights the ongoing debate about free speech rights and the significance of open discussions on labor-related issues within the company.