Dive Brief:
- Pres. Donald Trump appointed Philip A. Miscimarra chair of the National Labor Relations Board, the Office of Congressional and Public Affairs announced.
- Trump appointed Miscimarra acting NLRB chair on Jan. 23, 2017, and later chair on April 24. Miscimarra was first nominated to the board in April 2013.
- In the press release announcing his appointment, Miscimarra said, “The Board has the important responsibility of applying the National Labor Relations Act in an even-handed manner that serves the interests of employees, employers and unions throughout the country. I remain committed to these efforts.”
Dive Insight:
Trump was expected to appoint Miscimarra to head the NLRB since making him acting chair in January, so the announcement wasn’t a surprise.
The Trump administration and GOP-led Congress have made no secret of their pro-business stand on employment issues, even rolling back many Obama administration pro-labor initiatives. Two vacancies on the board remain, which, when filled, also could skew the NLRB's direction. A number of important NLRB initiatives could be affected by a switch in regime, including an increased focus on social media as protected speech and joint-employer status.
Alexander Acosta is also expected to be confirmed as Labor Secretary this month, finally cementing leadership at the other remaining agency with significant oversight of workplace laws. With each position filled, Trump's legacy regarding employment laws is clarified. Acosta is also considered pro-business.