Amazon Faces Labor Board's Joint Employer Accusations

The U.S. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has accused Amazon of unlawfully refusing to negotiate with a union representing drivers from Battle Tested Strategies (BTS). Allegedly a joint employer, Amazon terminated its contract with BTS post-unionization, prompting legal action. This decision could impact other Amazon contractors.

Amazon.com has been accused by the U.S. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) of illegally refusing to bargain with a union representing drivers employed by a contractor, the agency announced on Wednesday.

The complaint, issued by the NLRB on Monday, states that Amazon is considered a "joint employer" of drivers employed by Battle Tested Strategies (BTS) and allegedly used unlawful tactics to discourage union activities at its Palmdale, California facility. BTS drivers unionized last year under the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, becoming the first Amazon delivery contractors to do so.

According to the NLRB, Amazon violated federal labor law by ending its contract with BTS following the unionization, without first negotiating with the Teamsters. The board had previously indicated in August that there was merit to claims that Amazon holds control over BTS drivers, thus being their employer. A decision on this case is anticipated in March, with the potential to impact other Amazon contractors.

(With inputs from agencies.)