CAN AN EMPLOYER REQUEST THE NLRB TO DISMISS AN ELECTION PETITION IF AN EMPLOYER IS CEASES HIS BUSINESS OPERATIONS WITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER PETITION IS FILED?
February 18, 2025
- When an employer decides to cease operations shortly after a union election petition is filed, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) scrutinizes the employer's motives to determine if the action was intended to interfere with employees' organizing rights. The employer bears the burden of providing substantial and credible evidence that the decision to cease operations was based on legitimate business reasons unrelated to union activities.
Required Evidence
A. To meet this burden, the employer must present concrete evidence, which may include:
- Documented Financial Records: Demonstrating economic hardships, declining sales, or other financial metrics that necessitate cessation of operations.
- Strategic Business Plans: Showing that the decision aligns with long-term business strategies, such as restructuring or focusing on other markets, formulated prior to any union activity.
- Communications and Timelines: Providing records of internal communications and decision-making timelines that corroborate the employer's rationale for ceasing operations, established independently of the union election petition.
- Evidence of Imminent Cessation: The employer must demonstrate that plans to cease operations were imminent and not a reaction to the union election petition. This includes announcements of business closure to the public and employees, termination notices, or other definitive actions indicating a predetermined decision to cease operations.
B. If your company needs assistance trying to get a union petition dismissed 30 days after the election petition is filed since you are going out of business, please contact H. Sanford Rudnick & Associates at 1-800-326-3046
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Written by H. Sanford Rudnick,JD "Fundamentals of Labor Law Regarding Unions" is a practical guide to the principles of labor law, union relations, and proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Drawing on decades of experience representing employers, the book provides valuable insight into collective bargaining, union elections, labor disputes, and employer rights and responsibilities.
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Navigating labor and employment issues can be challenging, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're dealing with a union election, collective bargaining, an unfair labor practice, pension liability, or another labor or human resources matter, my team and I are here to provide practical guidance and experienced representation.
If you have questions or would like to discuss your situation, I invite you to contact me for a confidential consultation. We'll take the time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and help you determine the best path forward.
I look forward to speaking with you.
H. Sanford Rudnick, J.D.
Union & Labor Law Expert
1-800-326-3046
(925) 352-7900
sandy@rudnickpro.com

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