Is my co-worker breaking any rules with her hours...?

Employment Law Forum
1

So my co-worker was hired to work from 8 to 4:30, but she’s been coming in at 6:30 am. She gets half an hour of night shift differential and leaves around 3 pm. We work a union job, and she’s got a close connection with the manager. I’m wondering if this could be breaking any employment laws? Anyone know?

2

That sounds kinda fishy, especially with the manager connection. Do you know if the union has any rules about scheduling preferences?

3

Luca said:
That sounds kinda fishy, especially with the manager connection. Do you know if the union has any rules about scheduling preferences?

Good point! Our union posts jobs for day, evening, and night shifts. She’s on a day shift technically, so IDK if that changes things.

4

@Tao
Hmm… so maybe it’s not a union issue if she’s just on day shift but coming in earlier. Guess it depends on if the union has specific rules for that?

5

Sounds like favoritism, honestly. Unless it’s discrimination based on race, age, gender, or something else protected, favoritism itself isn’t technically illegal.

6

Wynter said:
Sounds like favoritism, honestly. Unless it’s discrimination based on race, age, gender, or something else protected, favoritism itself isn’t technically illegal.

Yeah, that’s kinda what I thought… I mean, she’s not getting this because of race or anything. Just that she’s close to the manager.

7

Is there any rule about who gets the night differential pay? That part sounds like it could be an issue.

8

Ari said:
Is there any rule about who gets the night differential pay? That part sounds like it could be an issue.

Good question! I think anyone working before a certain time gets it, so technically she’s allowed, I guess?

9

@Tao
Gotcha. Just seemed odd since she’s not technically on night shift. But if the union allows it, not much to do.

10

If it’s favoritism but not discrimination, it’s probably just unfair but not illegal.

11

Nori said:
If it’s favoritism but not discrimination, it’s probably just unfair but not illegal.

Yeah, you’re right. Just feels like there should be a rule, you know?

12

Honestly, if it’s bugging you, maybe bring it up with the union rep? They might know more about the rules for shift times.

13

Brianna said:
Honestly, if it’s bugging you, maybe bring it up with the union rep? They might know more about the rules for shift times.

Not a bad idea, thanks! I’ll see if they know anything about this.