Title: Amazon Workers Face Termination for Refusing to Return to Office
An estimated 2,000 Amazon workers in Seattle are planning a “walk out” protest against the company’s return-to-office policy. According to FOX 13 Seattle’s Dan Griffin, the employees are unhappy with the requirement to report to the office at least three days a week.
In response to the resistance, Amazon has circulated new guidance to managers, stating that they now have the authority to fire workers who fail to comply with the return-to-office policy. Business Insider reported on the internal document, which outlines the process for terminating non-compliant employees.
The guidance instructs managers to have a private discussion with employees who are not meeting the three-day-a-week requirement. If the employee continues to refuse to report to the office, a second conversation should be held. Failure to attend the office after these discussions may result in termination.
Amazon’s spokesperson, Rob Munoz, emphasized that the return-to-office policy is a requirement of employment. The company informed its workers in February that they would need to work in person at least three times a week, with the change taking effect in May. Some employees were required to relocate to meet this requirement.
Munoz stated that employee relocations only affect a small number of workers, and relocation benefits are provided. He also mentioned that there is an exception process in place, and exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy previously warned that a crackdown could be imminent for those who refuse to comply with the return-to-office policy. Jassy made it clear that it is essential for all teammates to be present in the office for at least three days a week.
Amazon, with over 1.46 million employees worldwide, has offices in various locations, including its headquarters in Seattle and its second headquarters in Arlington, Virginia.
It remains to be seen how the “walk out” protest will impact Amazon’s operations and whether the company will reconsider its return-to-office policy in light of employee concerns.
Note: This news post is based on the original article from FOX Business.