The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has filed a complaint against Apple, accusing the tech giant of violating employees’ rights to organize and advocate for improved working conditions.
The complaint alleges that Apple enforced unlawful workplace rules, including confidentiality, non-disclosure, non-compete agreements, and broad policies on misconduct and social media.
The NLRB claims these rules interfere with employees’ rights under federal labor law, stating that Apple “restrained and coerced” employees from exercising those rights.
Apple stated that it has always respected its workers’ rights to discuss wages, hours, and working conditions, reflected in its employment policies. “We strongly disagree with these claims and will continue to share the facts at the hearing,” a company spokesperson said.
If Apple does not settle the case, it will go to a hearing in January before an administrative judge. The NLRB seeks Apple to rescind the contested rules and notify its entire U.S. workforce of their rights. The full NLRB can review the judge’s decision, with potential appeals to federal courts.
The complaint stems from a 2021 case filed by former senior engineering manager Ashley Gjovik, who argued that Apple’s rules discouraged employees from discussing workplace issues like pay equity and discrimination.
