Nov 30, 2017
California State Supreme Court rules against Gerawan Farming

The California State Supreme Court has ruled against Gerawan Farming in a four-year long dispute with the United Farm Workers (UFW). Gerawan Farming, a tree fruit farmer based in Fresno County, has disputed with UFW over a union agreement with its workers.

The state Supreme Court focused on two issues: the legality of the process known as Mandatory Mediation and Conciliation and whether the UFW’s alleged absence for 17 years should be considered a factor, The Fresno Bee reports.

Here’s more from The Fresno Bee:

The dispute has lead to numerous lawsuits, a failed attempt to kick the union out and several findings of unfair labor practices by the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board.

In its 48-page decision, the justices ruled against Gerawan on both counts.

“We conclude that the MMC (mandatory mediation and conciliation) statute neither violates equal protection nor unconstitutionally delegates legislative power,” the ruling states.

The justices also did not accept Gerawan’s argument that the union’s absence during those years meant it forfeited its status as an employee representative.

Gerawan Farming intends to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the decision, according to the company’s attorney Ron Barsamian.

See more on this story at www.fresnobee.com.




Current Issue

On-farm AI: Water, farm, labor research guide decisions

Data collection tool expands farm management

Carmel Valley winegrapes: Parsonage Village Vineyard

IFTA Yakima Valley tour provides orchard insights

IFTA recognizes tree fruit honorees

Pennsylvania recognizes fruit industry professionals

Fresh Views 40 Under 40

see all current issue »

Be sure to check out our other specialty agriculture brands

produceprocessingsm Organic Grower