Proud. Engaged. Involved.
The UFCW’s advocacy extends far beyond the bargaining table, as we actively engage in shaping the broader policy measures that directly impact the lives and livelihoods of our diverse membership. We recognize the pivotal role that policy plays in safeguarding the rights and futures of all workers. That’s why we support legislation addressing systemic challenges facing our members, from fighting the misclassification of independent contractors to guaranteeing unemployment insurance for workers who go on strike.
Right to organize
Our labor laws need to be strengthened to prevent irresponsible employers from intimidating workers who are fighting for a voice in their workplace. The UFCW has long championed the passage of the PRO Act, which would strengthen workers’ bargaining power and their right to join a union, penalize predatory corporations, safeguard the right to strike, and eliminate “right-to-work” laws. We also support any measure that would end the misclassification of workers as independent contractors, or “gig workers,” which allows companies to avoid paying fair wages and benefits.
Immigration rights
Immigrants and refugees have enriched the fabric of our communities and our workforce since our nation’s founding. Our current immigration system is broken, allowing unscrupulous companies to exploit immigrant and guest workers by paying them less than they would pay U.S.-born workers. Undercutting wages for temporary and immigrant workers lowers wages for U.S.-born workers as well. We need an immigration process that enables people to keep contributing to our communities, support their families, pursue permanent residency if they choose, and know their rights as workers in this country. The UFCW supports comprehensive immigration reform because it is critical to our long-term efforts to raise labor standards and empower all workers.
Independent Contractor Misclassification
Worker misclassification is the practice of labeling a worker as an independent contractor rather than an employee. Misclassification is a growing and troubling trend for workers in every industry, including the nearly one million retail grocery workers who belong to the UFCW. Employers use misclassification to avoid paying fair wages, payroll taxes, and benefits such as unemployment insurance. The UFCW strongly opposes efforts by legislatures and gig companies — including Instacart, Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash — to classify their workers as independent contractors rather than employees.
Restore Full Funding to the Department of Labor and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
The NLRB protects the rights of workers fighting for a voice on the job and works to balance the needs of employers, unions, and employees nationwide. A fully funded DOL and NLRB are necessary to protect workers’ rights and safety, enforce employment anti-discrimination laws, and investigate labor law violations.
