After Three Years, NABET-CWA Members Near First Contract

Last week, after three years locked in a union certification battle with TV station operator Nexstar Media Group, a federal appeals court sided with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), ordering the company to recognize and bargain with NABET-CWA Local 51022.

The unit, representing broadcast media workers at WROC-8 in Rochester, N.Y., voted on February 15, 2023, to be represented by NABET-CWA. Nexstar raised challenges that delayed the certification but when the NLRB certified the unit, Nexstar refused to recognize the union. The company began litigation that made arguments about alleged supervisors, Board Agent misconduct, and improper influence on the election by a promised reduction of dues rates.

On June 30, 2026, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit issued its Order and Opinion enforcing the Board's decision in NLRB v. Nexstar (WROC-TV). The appellate court addressed and dismissed Nexstar's arguments, including alleged Board agent misconduct.

Members of the bargaining unit hope that Nexstar representatives will learn from this appellate court ruling. The unit has issued a new request to commence bargaining with WROC-8 on a first contract, for which these members have fought for nearly 42 months.