Read the NLRB complaint against the Journal

The National Labor Relations Board charged the Providence Journal with engaging in over 20 instances of unfair labor practices in a complaint received today by the Guild.

A "complaint" is equivalent to an indictment under NLRB procedures. A trial has been tentatively set for April 2.

In the 13-page document, the Journal is accused of illegally imposing changed medical plans, medical costs, vacation, parking and taking away a holiday.

Before the complaint was issued, the NLRB and the Guild approached the company about settling both the charges and the contract together. The Guild made an off-the-record contract proposal, which would be less expensive to the Journal than complying with than a guilty finding by the NLRB. It was rejected. The complaint covers charges contained in unfair labor practice charges filed by the Guild in December 1999 and May 2000. Two other charges, containing over 20 additional accusations are currently under investigation by the NLRB.

The company is also accused of illegally transferring Guild activist Brian Jones, and with numerous instances of refusing to provide the Guild with information related to negotiations and grievances.

The information the company has refused to provide includes: details of medical plans, gainsharing calculations,

Pension and 401(k) costs and calculations, and details of the company's parking proposal.

If found guilty of the charges, the Journal could be forced to restore the old benefits and pay Guild members back pay for the losses caused by the company's actions.