"The recent settlement of labor complaints demonstrates that the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and unions can resolve differences without diminishing tribal sovereignty.

The primary issue for the tribe is sovereignty. It contends that the National Labor Relations Act does not apply to the tribe and that tribal labor law must govern any union organizing

So far the casino has pursued a strategy typical of many large businesses. It has fought the union at every point in the process, placing the pressure on the union to keep its members unified as the process drags on.

But this is not a typical situation. Foxwoods is opening a major expansion and facing increased competition. A frustrated work force that concludes management is stalling could result in morale problems that diminish customer service at this critical time.

And if the tribe presses the issue all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court it risks an adverse decision that could erode sovereignty in ways the tribe did not envision.

No one wins if this union fight continues to drag on. The recent settlement of the labor complaints suggests that it doesn't have to happen."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Foxwoods Labor Peace Viable (The New London Day 3/26)
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Related Story:
Foxwoods Fulfills Its Promise To Appeal (The New London Day 3/26)
Mashantuckets appeal labor board union decision (The Norwich Bulletin 3/26)