New York Times Accused of Using AI to Monitor Unionized Employees, Sparking Legal Action
Unionized employees at the New York Times have filed grievances and an unfair labor practice charge against the publication, alleging that it uses artificial intelligence to monitor and surveil them. The New York Times Guild and the Times Tech Guild claim that this practice violates their collective bargaining agreement. The unions have requested information on the company's current and past use of AI, as well as its future plans for the technology, but allege that the Times has not responded to these requests. The dispute arises as the Times Guild, representing over 1,500 staff, is negotiating a new contract. The unions are advocating for stronger AI protections and affordable healthcare.