LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda L. Solis, Supervisor to the First District, issued the following statement after the California Labor Commissioner issued a fine to the McDonald’s on Marengo Street in Boyle Heights for firing four employees who participated in protests highlighting COVID-19 safety conditions in their workplace.
“I stand in solidarity with the Fight for 15 campaign that is highlighting unfair working conditions and pay for our most vulnerable communities.
Upon receiving a letter from SEIU Local 721, I authored a motion that was passed on October 13, 2020 which directed our County Departments to investigate complaints about the workplace environment at the McDonald’s on Marengo Street in Boyle Heights, which included allegations of retaliation against employees who spoke out about public health violations.
Since then, the County has continued its work to improve workers’ protections through the development of Public Health Councils to prevent future instances of retaliation against workers that speak out about public health noncompliance in the workplace. This also includes the implementation of anti-retaliation, paid sick leave, worker retention, and right of recall ordinances.
Worker health and safety is of utmost importance for any business, and I expect employers to adhere to all local and state laws applicable to food service establishments. The County of Los Angeles remains fully committed to identifying and resolving any issues within our food service establishments. The safety of our communities depends on it.”