In a recent development, California’s 5th District Court of Appeal has ruled that negotiations between the United Farm Workers (UFW) and Wonderful Company must continue, forcing the two parties to return to the bargaining table. This decision follows a legal dispute in which Wonderful had previously obtained a preliminary injunction from the Kern County Superior Court, temporarily halting all related proceedings with the Agricultural Labor Relations Board (ALRB).
The ALRB and UFW had challenged this injunction, arguing that ongoing negotiations and administrative proceedings should not be interrupted while the case moves through the courts. Wonderful Company, however, remains focused on its broader challenge to the constitutionality of California’s card check law, which it argues infringes upon its and its workers’ rights.
With the Appellate Court’s latest ruling, the ALRB is set to resume its oversight of the ongoing administrative proceedings, including Wonderful’s objections to the UFW’s card check petition and UFW’s alleged unfair labor practice complaints. Additionally, Wonderful may be compelled to resume the mediation and conciliation process.