HR News: Strikes Update, Qualcomm Layoffs, New Diversity Rules, and More

This is a weekly roundup of the latest in HR News.

The week's headlines are yet another demonstration of the tension between executives and workers, who are vying for leverage in this time of workplace transformation. Labor unions are negotiating and striking for fairer treatment. Layoffs are still happening. And new diversity rules arrive in venture capital at the same time as people notice how Hispanics are lacking in the C-suite. Read on for details. 

Updates on Labor Union Strikes

SAG-AFTRA, the labor union for Hollywood actors, believed it would close in on a deal with movie studios after the Writers Guild of America (WGA) had reached a resolution, but they were shocked to learn the executives walked away. Rolling Stone wrote an informative article about the details. 

The United Auto Workers (UAW) announced it would change its approach to its strike with the Big Three auto companies. UAW remains entrenched in conflict over contracts with General Motors (GM), Ford, and Stellantis. Rather than announcing its plans, the UAW is switching things up, according to NPR. Ford said it had "reached its ceiling" on its offer. Ford recently announced 550 more layoffs, which brings the number of strike-related layoffs to 2,480, according to the Detroit Free Press.  

The labor unions representing 85,000 health care workers went on strike and recently reached a deal with healthcare giant Kaiser Permanente. Both sides said they prioritized patient's care throughout negotiations. 

"The deal includes setting minimum hourly wages at $25 in California, where most of Kaiser’s facilities are located, and $23 in other states. Workers will also see a 21% wage increase over four years. The ratification process is scheduled to begin next week," according to AP. 

CNBC reports that Walgreens and other chains are planning walkouts and rallies in the coming weeks. They are seeking better working conditions. 

Qualcomm Layoffs

In the facing of shrinking revenue, Qualcomm announced it would be laying off more than 1,200 workers in California in December, according to CNN. 

New Diversity Law in VC

California signed into law a new bill that requires reporting annually to the California Civil Rights Department about the funding determinations and how they may or may not relate to the diversity of founding members, according to National Law Review.

HREN Offers Audience a Chance to Network

On World Mental Health Day (Oct. 10), HR Exchange Network held a live conversation among Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer of VaynerMedia, and HREN community members, about the connection between wellness and job benefits. Through the live chat, audience members shared their own comments, stories, and questions. They also connected with each other on LinkedIn. 

Next, on Oct. 20, HR Exchange Network will launch a conversation about global diversity, which will include how to support colleagues in times of crisis in their countries, ways to conduct cultural exchanges, and how to ensure building strong, multinational teams. 

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