DFL Senators Stand In Solidarity With Hormel Workers In Historic Sick Leave Lawsuit

DFL Senators Stand In Solidarity With Hormel Workers In Historic Sick Leave Lawsuit

By MinneapoliMedia Staff 
July 31, 2025 | St. Paul, MN

A class-action lawsuit filed this week by workers at Hormel’s meatpacking plant in Austin, Minnesota, has sparked a wave of solidarity among top DFL lawmakers. The suit, brought forward by more than 1,600 unionized workers from United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 663, alleges violations of Minnesota’s Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) statute — the first case of its kind since the law took effect in 2023.

According to the civil complaint, Hormel Foods Corporation forced employees to use collectively bargained vacation time instead of sick leave, in direct conflict with state law. Workers also allege broader noncompliance with the ESST statute, which was designed to protect Minnesotans’ health, safety, and workplace rights.

Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy (DFL–St. Paul), one of the law’s most vocal champions, expressed her unwavering support for the workers taking legal action.

“There are more than three million working people in Minnesota, and earned sick and safe time upholds the rights and health of every single one of them,” Murphy said. “I am rooting for these UFCW workers, and so is every person in this state who believes in hard work and access to healthcare.”

Murphy emphasized that the ESST law was passed thanks to sustained advocacy from labor groups and that any attempts to weaken it will continue to meet firm resistance.

Senator Jen McEwen (DFL–Duluth), Chair of the Senate Labor Committee, condemned Hormel’s alleged conduct as emblematic of a broader disregard for workers' dignity and rights.

“Some corporate executives seem to think that disregarding the humanity of their employees — treating people as if they are cogs in a profit-making machine — is acceptable,” McEwen stated. “Here in Minnesota, workers have power. When they are exploited and disrespected, workers can come together to demand better.”

McEwen affirmed that the Minnesota Senate and the communities affected will stand with UFCW members as they pursue justice and accountability.

Senator Sandra Pappas (DFL–St. Paul), chief author of the 2023 ESST legislation, stressed that the law was created to support workers from all backgrounds, particularly those in marginalized or low-wage positions.

“Earned Sick and Safe Time is good for everyone: for all workers, who should not have to choose between making rent or staying home when they or a family member are sick… and for businesses, which see the benefits of a more stable workforce,” Pappas said. “Hormel must follow Minnesota law and stop disrespecting its workers.”

The ESST law ensures that all workers in Minnesota earn time off to care for their health or the health of loved ones, including for recovery from domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. While most employers across the state have adapted to the law, the Hormel lawsuit reveals that compliance is not yet universal.

This class-action case marks a critical test for the state’s commitment to upholding the rights enshrined in ESST. Should the court rule in favor of UFCW Local 663, it may set a powerful precedent for future enforcement and accountability.

About the Senators:

• Sen. Erin Murphy represents Senate District 64, encompassing parts of St. Paul. She serves as Senate Majority Leader and has been a long-time advocate for labor rights and healthcare access.
• Sen. Jen McEwen represents Senate District 8, which includes Duluth. As Chair of the Senate Labor Committee, she leads legislative efforts on workers’ rights and fair labor practices.
• Sen. Sandra Pappas represents Senate District 65, covering parts of St. Paul and West St. Paul. She was the chief author of the Earned Sick and Safe Time law passed in 2023.

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