Workers sue Hormel in class action lawsuit

Workers at Hormel Foods have recently taken legal action against the company by filing a class action lawsuit. UFCW Local 663 Union Workers have accused Hormel of violating earned sick and safe time laws by failing to provide paid leave benefits required by the Minnesota Earned Sick and Safe Time law. This legislation ensures that employees receive paid time off for reasons such as illness or injury, with one hour earned for every 30 hours worked, up to a maximum of 48 hours per year.

UFCW Local 663, which represents over 1600 meatpacking workers at Hormel, is at the forefront of this legal battle. Union President Rena Wong emphasized the importance of fighting for workers’ rights, highlighting the significant role of Austin employees in establishing industry wage standards. The lawsuit alleges several violations by Hormel, including the forced use of vacation benefits for paid leave, failure to provide earned ESST benefits between January 1, 2024, and March 1, 2025, and denial of carryover benefits from 2024 to 2025.

The legal representation for the plaintiffs is provided by Louris Marshall O’Brien, P.A. Attorney Tim Louris pointed out that while Hormel is now in compliance with the law, the company continues to withhold back benefits owed to employees. Despite repeated demands, Hormel has refused to compensate workers for ESST benefits earned prior to March 1st. The lawsuit currently involves four plaintiffs, with the specific monetary value of the benefits yet to be determined.

Efforts to seek comments from Hormel regarding the lawsuit have been unsuccessful thus far. The unresolved dispute sheds light on the ongoing battle for fair treatment and compensation for workers in the meatpacking industry. The collective action taken by UFCW Local 663 to hold Hormel accountable for its alleged violations reflects a larger movement towards ensuring that employees are provided with the rights and benefits they are entitled to under the law.

As the legal battle unfolds, the workers at Hormel are standing firm in their quest for justice and fair treatment. The lawsuit serves as a reminder of the important role that unions play in advocating for the rights and well-being of workers across various industries. The outcome of this case will not only impact the employees at Hormel but may also set a precedent for future labor disputes and negotiations within the meatpacking industry and beyond.