NM Workers Comp Tidbits

As a labor/employment mediator, arbitrator and ALJ, I strive to keep abreast of--and inform my readers of noteworthy labor and employment cases.  Although the Workers Comp Administration in New Mexico maintains its own stable of mediators and ALJs, I like to keep up with this area of law also, mostly because the issues that arise are so darn interesting.  Two recent cases highlight that.

Albuquerque's Labor Ordinance Still Grandfathered

This year, the State Supreme Court struck a highly symbolic blow for the continuing efficacy of grandfathered local labor boards.  Back in 2010, the Court of Appeals had reversed then-District Court Judge Bill Lang, and upheld PELRB Director Juan Montoya, in determining that the interim appointment provision of City of Albuquerque's local labor relations ordinance was not entitled to grandfathered status.