Why did the NLRB dismiss its case against SpaceX?

The NLRB dismissed its case against SpaceX because a recent opinion from the National Mediation Board determined that SpaceX engineers fall under the NMB's jurisdiction, not the NLRB's, meaning the NLRB lacks jurisdiction over the employer.

What is the significance of SpaceX falling under NMB jurisdiction?

When SpaceX engineers fall under NMB jurisdiction, they are covered by a different law that lacks the equivalent protections for collective action that workers under NLRB jurisdiction have to improve their working conditions.

What other legal challenges has SpaceX faced?

SpaceX had previously sued the NLRB, challenging its constitutionality, and the fired engineers have a separate lawsuit against SpaceX and Musk alleging sexual harassment and retaliation under California law.

Home / Business and Economy / NLRB Retreats from SpaceX Labor Fight

NLRB Retreats from SpaceX Labor Fight

10 Feb

•

Summary

NLRB dismissed a case against SpaceX over engineer firings.
SpaceX engineers now fall under NMB jurisdiction, not NLRB.
This decision limits worker protections against retaliation.

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has dismissed a significant legal case against Elon Musk's SpaceX, ending a dispute that began two years ago. The agency accused SpaceX of retaliating against eight engineers for signing an open letter critical of Musk.

In a letter to former employees' attorneys, the NLRB stated it lacks jurisdiction over SpaceX. This decision stems from a recent opinion by the National Mediation Board (NMB), which asserted jurisdiction over SpaceX engineers. The NMB typically oversees railroad and airline companies.

This NLRB withdrawal represents a victory for SpaceX, potentially limiting legal avenues for employees claiming workplace retaliation. Workers under NLRB jurisdiction are granted rights to collective action for improved working conditions, protections absent for those under NMB oversight.