### Limited Labor Disputes in Baja California Following Labor Law Amendments
**By: TJGringo Staff**
Since the amendments made to the Federal Labor Law, particularly those affecting collective contracts, it’s become increasingly difficult for “protection unions” to call for strikes or file collective lawsuits. Arturo Méndez Preciado, a corporate lawyer, noted that there has been a significant reduction in collective labor disputes in Baja California since the reforms.
Méndez Preciado stated, “The collective aspect in Baja California has not seen significant activity; there is a scarcity of collective lawsuits in the labor courts.” He emphasized that the 2019 labor justice reform, which replaced the Conciliation and Arbitration Boards with labor courts, played a crucial role in this change by eliminating so-called “protection unions.”
He explained that prior to these changes, up to 90% of collective bargaining in Mexico was fictitious and did not serve to protect workers. Instead, unions were employed to shield companies from genuine labor demands. The new reforms now grant workers the right to join unions and require proof of representation to sign collective agreements, ensuring that workers must be actively employed at their workplace.
As the former president of the Conciliation and Arbitration Board, Méndez Preciado added that it’s now more challenging for unions to call for strikes as they previously did. Now, they must engage with the company, interact with the workers, and secure signatures from over 30% of the workforce before negotiating a collective contract or calling for a strike.
These reforms have mandated that companies, particularly those in industries like construction, maintain harmony in the workplace by providing workers with signed contracts and benefits.
### Additional Insights: Labor Law Reforms and Their Impact
**Progress in Labor Law Reforms**
Another significant reform under Mexico’s Federal Labor Law is the “Ley Silla,” which aims to improve working conditions and has been highlighted as one of the most progressive steps in recent labor law adjustments. Labor leaders have praised this reform for setting a new standard in workplace environments and worker rights.
**Challenges and Responses to Reduced Work Hours in Construction Industry**
The construction industry in Baja California is preparing for a potential reduction in working hours. Industry leaders are exploring new technologies and strategies to optimize labor efficiency in response to these changes.
### Other Relevant Local News
**High Crime Rates in Tijuana**
Tijuana’s crime rates have placed four of its intersections among the most dangerous in Mexico. Authorities are working on measures to address safety concerns in these areas.
**School Year Delays**
Members of the CNTE union have warned that outstanding payments to teachers may delay the start of the school year. Efforts are being made to resolve these financial issues swiftly to avoid disruption in education.
**Economic Boost from Federal Funds**
Baja California has seen a boost in federal resources, with over 21 billion pesos received by June 2024, according to the Ministry of Finance. This influx is poised to support various local development initiatives.
**Social Programs for Seniors**
Programs for seniors aged 60 to 64 have seen long queues, with some individuals camping overnight to secure their benefits. This highlights the significant demand for social support among the elderly population in the region.
Stay updated with more local news and developments on TJGringo.com!