This article discusses the growing wave of union organizing across the U.S. and the legislative backlash from some states. Despite state preemption laws aimed at undermining local labor-friendly initiatives, cities and counties are fighting back. A report by the NYU Wagner Labor Initiative and Local Progress Impact Lab highlights how local governments are creating worker protection roles, documenting workplace conditions, and educating workers on their rights. Examples include actions to combat wage theft, improve working conditions, and protect workers from extreme heat.
The report also examines how localities are setting minimum wage laws, like in New Orleans, where the city’s minimum wage surpasses the federal rate. The challenges posed by state laws seeking to limit labor organizing are noted, but labor advocates argue that local governments can still play a crucial role in protecting workers’ rights. Cities like Boston, Seattle, and New York City are highlighted for their innovative approaches, such as creating offices dedicated to labor compliance and worker protections. The article emphasizes that even small-scale local efforts can significantly improve workers’ conditions, especially in states with less supportive labor policies.