Gallego, Kelly Press US Foods Over Alleged Anti-Union Activity in Arizona

WASHINGTON — Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) sent a letter to US Foods, Inc. CEO David Flitman and Area President Michelle King raising concerns over allegations of anti-union activity, employee intimidation, and retaliation against Arizona based US Foods workers who are attempting to organize with Teamsters Local Union 104. In the letter, the senators called on US Foods to address the allegations and cooperate with any investigation. “Many hardworking drivers, warehouse workers, and meat preparation workers are attempting to organize a union to secure higher wages and better working conditions. However, serious allegations have been brought to our attention regarding US Foods’ conduct during this union campaign,” the senators wrote. “ These allegations include management intimidation of workers, anti-union messaging, interference with organizing efforts, and retaliation against employees seeking to join Teamsters Local Union 104.” “These allegations warrant immediate attention and an appropriate investigation, and they raise significant questions regarding US Foods’ commitment to respecting the federally protected rights of its employees to organize, engage in collective bargaining, and make decisions regarding union representation without coercion, intimidation, or retaliation,” the senators continued. The senators added that employees have the right to organize, support a labor union, engage in protected concerted activities, and seek collective representation under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Section 8(a)(3) of the law prohibits discrimination regarding employment to encourage or discourage union membership. “Arizona’s working families deserve employers that respect their dignity, their contributions, and their rights under the law. Companies operating in our state must be investigated when credible allegations of unlawful labor practices arise and held accountable where appropriate,” the senators concluded. Read the full text of the letter HERE .