The New York Times has an interesting article about a non-union employee group organizing Wal-Mart workers. The Group, OUR Wal-Mart, does not intend to negotiate collective bargaining agreements, but does intend on assisting workers by using the protections afforded organizing and collective action. It also charges $5 a month in dues. The group is supported by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW). Wal-Mart spokesperson claims this group is a stalking horse for a union. I think its more than that. Sounds like a labor organization.

I'm not ready to change my ways, but John Phillips just posted about this New York Times article about the return of the (inexpensive) suit. John's absolutely correct about the number of buttons and that cuffs are required, otherwise why bother.

Well, its not exactly employment law, but its posted on a great blog for employment lawyers, Adjunct Law Prof Blog, and in light of the controversy concerning corporal punishment meted out at St. Augustine High School, a link here is appropriate. It quotes from a New York Times Article which notes the U.S. Department of Education estimates 223,190 children were subjected to corporal punishment during the 2005-2006 school year, and that this is a 20% drop from a prior survey. The article points to the Center for Effective Discipline Site which lists the states which ban corporal punishment. Apparently its legal still in 20 states, including Louisiana.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released its data on major work stoppages in 2009. During 2009, fewer strikes and lockouts involving over 1000 workers (5) occurred than in any year since records have been kept (1947). This continues a trend that began in the late 1970’s and parallels the rapid decline in union membership during the same period. The New York Times has a graphic of the decline.