Summary of June 2025’s Labor Law Cases in Cincinnati, OH
This monthly legal roundup from HKM Employment Attorneys highlights significant labor and employment law developments in Ohio during June 2025. Designed for employees, HR professionals, and compliance officers, this summary covers key court decisions, agency actions, and labor policy shifts that may impact workplace rights across the state. June 2025 brought notable developments in Ohio labor law, including an NLRB ruling reinforcing worker protections and a proposed expansion of paid leave benefits. For guidance on how these changes may affect your workplace, contact HKM Employment Attorneys. Our team is here to help employees and employers navigate Ohio’s evolving legal landscape.
NLRB Finds Amazon Illegally Fired Worker for Raising Safety Concerns — Agency Ruling
Date: June 25, 2025
Summary:
On June 25, 2025, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Region 8 concluded that Amazon unlawfully terminated an employee at its Akron, Ohio facility for engaging in protected concerted activity. The worker was vocal about safety conditions in the warehouse and shared those concerns with other employees. The NLRB determined that the firing violated Section 8(a)(1) of the National Labor Relations Act, which protects workers’ rights to act collectively to improve working conditions, even outside the context of formal union activity.
Implications:
This decision reinforces protections for non-union employees in Ohio who raise workplace safety concerns. Employers in the state should review internal disciplinary practices to ensure compliance with the NLRA, particularly when addressing employee activism or group discussions around working conditions.
Ohio Bill Proposes Paid Family Leave for Private Sector Workers — Legislation
Date: June 12, 2025
Summary:
Ohio lawmakers introduced HB 558 in June 2025, proposing up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave for private sector workers, funded through a new payroll deduction model. The bill mirrors elements of federal FMLA but would expand coverage to include smaller employers and part-time workers. It proposes wage replacement up to 80% for qualifying life events such as childbirth, serious illness, or caring for a family member.
Implications:
While not yet law, this bill signals momentum toward more robust workplace benefits in Ohio. If passed, it could impose new administrative requirements on employers and create significant new rights for workers. HR professionals and employment counsel should monitor its progress closely through the 2025 legislative session.
Conclusion: Looking back on Cincinnati, OH Labor Law Updates in June 2025
With recent Ohio cases addressing wage theft, hostile work environments, and wrongful termination, now is the time to take action—and you don’t have to do it alone. At HKM Employment Attorneys in Cincinnati, our local lawyers have secured over $250 million in recoveries and never represent employers—we’re fierce advocates for employees facing discrimination, contract disputes, FMLA or ADA violations, non‑compete enforcement, whistleblower retaliation, and more. Known for responsive communication, personalized strategies, and no‑fee‑unless‑we‑win representation, we’ll guide you from reviewing your legal options to litigating in state or federal court. If the latest case trends hit too close to home, contact our Cincinnati office to learn how we can help defend your rights.
