Starbucks Employees Take Legal Action Over New Dress Code Expenses
Starbucks employees in three states have taken legal action against the company, claiming that it violated the law by implementing a new dress code without reimbursing them for the cost of purchasing new clothes. The employees, supported by a union organizing Starbucks workers, have filed class-action lawsuits in Illinois and Colorado, as well as complaints with California’s Labor and Workforce Development Agency. The new dress code, which went into effect on May 12, requires all North American workers to wear a solid black shirt under their green aprons, along with specific bottoms and shoes. Employees were given two free T-shirts that comply with the new guidelines, but some had to purchase additional clothing to meet the requirements.
The new dress code prohibits face tattoos, multiple facial piercings, tongue piercings, and "theatrical makeup." Starbucks stated that the updated dress code was intended to make employees' green aprons more noticeable and create a sense of familiarity for customers. Prior to the new dress code, Starbucks had a more relaxed policy that allowed for a wider variety of colors and patterns in employee attire. However, under the new guidelines, employees who do not comply are not permitted to start their shifts. Some employees, like Brooke Allen from California, had to spend additional money on compliant clothing and shoes to meet the new dress code requirements.
The lawsuits and complaints filed by Starbucks employees allege that the company's dress code violates state laws that require employers to reimburse workers for expenses that primarily benefit the employer. Employees in Colorado also claim that the company imposed expenses on them without their written consent, which is prohibited by state law. The plaintiffs are seeking damages on behalf of all Starbucks workers in those states, regardless of union affiliation. The legal action represents a new approach in the ongoing effort to unionize Starbucks stores, as previous efforts have involved filing unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board.
Overall, Starbucks employees are challenging the company's new dress code, arguing that it places a financial burden on workers without providing adequate compensation. The legal action taken by employees in multiple states highlights the importance of fair treatment and reimbursement for expenses incurred as a result of company policies.