The general counsel of the National Labor Relations Board issued a ruling this week that could open the door to unionizing of McDonald’s workers, even at franchised stores.
The ruling that McDonald’s could be deemed a joint employer with franchisees has outraged businesses. McDonald’s will contest the ruling. Worker organizers contend McDonald’s has great influence on franchisees’ business decisions and is hiding behind them to avoid paying better wages.
Though the decision on unfair practices isn’t final, advocates for workers are stepping up demonstrations to pressure McDonald’s. To that end, workers and supporters will demonstrate at 11 a.m. Friday at the McDonald’s at 104 S. University. They’ll ask McDonald’s to pay workers $15 an hour and respect their right to form a union.
Workers in other cities have gone on strike for better pay at McDonald’s.