09-10-2012, 02:39 AM
(09-09-2012, 04:14 PM)Jester Wrote: That's not such an empty threat. In an environment where jobs are fragile and scarce, and bosses are looking to get rid of employees anyway, this kind of intimidation can be quite serious. And it seems clear from what's been said by both sides that, at minimum, workers were told this is what they were doing today, without pay. The mine was closed specifically to get workers out to the rally. I know what I'd think if my boss told me attendance was mandatory; I'd assume I have to go, or risk being fired.
Considering that Ohio is one of the states where At Will firing is still very much a thing, Yes. It's an empty threat.
Don't like the way you walk into work? Fired
Don't like the shirt color you wear? Fired
Don't like your political affiliations? Fired
and they just have to give a reason that isn't against the law. "Not performing to expectations" is vague enough that it covers.
Ohio employment laws suck. I assure you, we are the ass crack of the US. Politically (Go look at just how awfully important this state is for elections) Employment, Jobs, Education, etc...
Does it make it right? No.
Does it make me care? Not until someone actually gets fired for not showing up. Sorry, I just don't. I see all kinds of incredibly terrible things within employment in this state, and in my own position.
When someone gets fired, I will have a problem with it. I sympathize with them that they lose a day of work and pay because of a political rally, and I feel bad that there case will get used by both sides in the upcoming election ads.
Until then? They have a job. Their bosses are terrible. I'm not surprised, or appalled. It's one of the things that needs changed in the states employment laws.
nobody ever slaughtered an entire school with a smart phone and a twitter account – they have, however, toppled governments. - Jim Wright