Union Calls for Return to Days of ‘Blue Laws’

To say I was stunned this morning to read that some labor union officials appear to be advocating for a return to the days of “Blue Laws” would be an understatement. But that was the case this morning after I read a news release issued by Teamsters Local 734 in Chicago today.

In that news release, Brian Meidel, president of that local, said this:

“We’re out here to send a message to Jewel that Sunday is a day when Americans should be able to go to worship or spend time with their families.”

Local 734 officials are opposed to a demand by Jewel company officials that some 400 union bakery truck drivers be required to work several hours each Sunday, delivering bakery products for their employers — Sara Lee, Interstate Baking Corp., George Westin Baking and Chicago Baking — to Jewel grocery stores throughout Chicagoland.

Loyal readers of this blog know that I rarely find myself in agreement with labor union activists. Today, however, is one of those rare occasions when I do.

You see, I grew up during a time when stores in my rural northern Oklahoma community remained closed on Sundays due to Blue Laws that restricted commercial activities on that day so that families could spend time together on at least one day per week. And no one missed going to the store on Sunday.

Perhaps one day soon, enough people will tire of today’s fast-paced way of life and Blue Laws will make a comeback. In my estimation, that would result in both a happier, more-satisfied population and fewer disgruntled employees in the workforce.

-- Bob McCarty Writes