NLRB Reverses Ruling on New York Hospital Firing

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The National Labor Relations Board has reversed an administrative law judge's decision that a New York hospital used pretextual reasons to fire an employee because of her union support. The NLRB majority ruled that the hospital met its burden to prove it would have terminated the radiology technician regardless of her role in the hospital's organizing drive, due to violations of patient privacy laws.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex balance between employee labor rights and an employer's ability to enforce workplace policies, especially in the healthcare industry where patient privacy is paramount. The NLRB's decision sets an important precedent on the standards for proving termination was not due to union activity.

The details

The NLRB found that the hospital provided sufficient evidence that the radiology technician had violated patient privacy laws, which was the stated reason for her termination. The dissenting opinion argued the hospital's investigation ignored evidence that could have refuted the charges against the employee.

• The NLRB issued its ruling on March 31, 2026.