Thank you to all our members who have shared their experiences with WorkPartners. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to advocate on your behalf. We are providing this update to keep you informed about NAGE’s ongoing work regarding WorkPartners.
As you may recall, NAGE was the first union to file an unfair labor practice charge concerning the implementation of WorkPartners. We have significant news to share: the Department of Labor Relations (DLR) has issued a “Complaint of Prohibited Practice” in response to our charge. This critical development signifies that the DLR has found probable cause to believe the Baker administration violated labor laws. Specifically, they believe the administration illegally contracted out leave administration work to WorkPartners without engaging in good faith negotiations with NAGE. This is detailed in the DOL Complaint of Prohibited Practice.
Echoes of Past Labor Law Violations: The PFMLA Case
This situation bears a striking resemblance to the PFMLA (Paid Family and Medical Leave) case we successfully litigated several years ago. In that instance, the Baker administration was also found guilty of similar labor law violations, ultimately costing the state an estimated $30 million. Should the DLR uphold this current charge against WorkPartners, it would mark the fifth time in recent years that the Baker administration has been found in violation of labor laws in cases brought forward by NAGE.
While this complaint from the DLR represents a significant step forward and a victory for our members, it is important to understand that this is not the end of the process. NAGE’s legal team still has considerable work ahead, and there is no guarantee of a final victory. However, this is undoubtedly positive news, and we wanted to ensure you were informed of this important development in our ongoing efforts regarding Work Partners Massachusetts.
Looking Ahead: Engaging with the Healey Administration
Beyond the legal avenues we are pursuing, NAGE will also be actively engaging with the Healey Administration. We will be formally requesting them to re-examine the previous administration’s decision to outsource the management of employee medical and family leave – a deeply personal and sensitive matter – to an out-of-state, anti-union company like WorkPartners. This contract is costing taxpayers millions of dollars annually, a cost we believe is needless and misdirected.
NAGE remains committed to our members and will continue to provide updates as this situation progresses. For further information and context, please refer to our previous updates on WorkPartners linked below:
Workpartners Update – January 26, 2023
Workpartners Update – January 3, 2023
Workpartners Update – September 23, 2022
Workpartners Update – September 9, 2022
