Apple accused by US labor board of imposing illegal workplace rules

On October 1st, the U.S. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) filed a complaint against Apple (AAPL.O) for allegedly violating workers’ rights. The NLRB accuses Apple of enforcing unlawful workplace policies, including confidentiality, non-disclosure, and non-compete agreements that restrict employees from organizing and advocating for better working conditions. The complaint also claims Apple implemented overly restrictive misconduct and social media policies, which infringe on employees’ rights under federal labor law.

Apple, in response, stated that it respects its employees’ rights to discuss wages, hours, and working conditions, as reflected in its policies. The company expressed its disagreement with the allegations and intends to present its case during the hearing scheduled for January, if a settlement isn’t reached.

The complaint is rooted in charges filed in 2021 by former Apple senior engineering manager, Ashley Gjovik. She claimed that Apple’s confidentiality and social media policies hinder employees from discussing important topics such as pay equity and sexual discrimination. Additionally, Gjovik has filed a separate lawsuit in California federal court, alleging that Apple retaliated against her for filing these complaints and attempting to organize her colleagues. Apple has denied any misconduct and moved to dismiss the case.

Apart from Gjovik’s case, Apple is also facing other pending NLRB cases, including accusations of wrongful termination at its Cupertino headquarters and interference with a union campaign at an Atlanta retail store. The company denies all allegations.