News

Franchise owners head to Capitol Hill to voice opposition of McDonald’s decision

September 16, 2014

Franchise owners across a number of industries are in Washington, DC, today to voice their opposition to the recent National Labor Relations Board ruling against McDonald's that stated the company shares joint employer status with their franchiees. Because of the NLRB decision, McDonald's is considered culpable for wage theft accusations brought forth by employees across the country.

According to The Hill, franchise owners say this ruling threatens to undermine the franchising business model. IFA President Steve Caldeira is on Capitol Hill today, helping to "make their voices heard" about what he calls a "threatening situation." He said the ruling will be detrimental to job creation and is seeking Congressional support.

More than 350 franchisees and franchisors are expected to ask lawmakers for their help in opposing the NLRB's ruling. House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour (R) are expected to speak during this week's events, according to The Hill. Senators are also joining the debate.

Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) plan to unveil a bill they say would "turn the NLRB into more of an umpire than an advocate," the story said.