In a recent development, aerospace manufacturer SpaceX has been accused by a US labor agency of unlawfully terminating eight employees for circulating a letter criticizing founder and CEO Elon Musk. The regional official from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has issued a complaint, claiming that SpaceX violated federal labor laws that protect workers' rights to advocate for better working conditions.

The letter, which was sent to SpaceX executives in June 2022, focused on Musk's series of tweets since 2020, many of which were sexually suggestive. The employees alleged that Musk's statements did not align with the company's diversity policies and workplace misconduct standards, and they called on SpaceX to publicly condemn them.

In addition to accusing SpaceX of wrongfully firing the employees involved, the complaint also alleges that the company interrogated them about the letter, disparaged their involvement, and even threatened to terminate other employees who engaged in similar activities.

SpaceX has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these allegations.

One of the fired employees, Deborah Lawrence, stated through her lawyers that SpaceX has a "toxic culture" where harassment is tolerated, particularly against women.

Moving forward, the NLRB's general counsel, acting as a prosecutor, will bring the case to the five-member board appointed by the president. Unless a settlement is reached, an administrative judge will hear the case, and their decision can be appealed to the board and ultimately to a federal appeals court. A hearing for this case is scheduled for March 5.

If it is determined that SpaceX violated labor law, the NLRB can order the reinstatement of the terminated workers and provide them with back pay. Furthermore, SpaceX may face more severe penalties in future cases before the board if found guilty of violating the law.

This case is the latest in a series of accusations against companies led by Elon Musk, alleging violations of employees' rights under labor and employment laws. In a previous report by Reuters in November, it was revealed that SpaceX facilities had experienced at least 600 unreported workplace injuries, including serious incidents such as crushed limbs, electrocution, head injuries, and even one fatality. SpaceX did not respond to the findings at the time.

Furthermore, Musk's other ventures have also faced labor-related issues. In October, the NLRB issued a complaint against X, a social media service formerly known as Twitter and owned by Musk, accusing the company of wrongfully terminating an employee over tweets questioning the company's return-to-office policy. X, however, denied any wrongdoing.

Likewise, Tesla, where Musk serves as CEO, has dealt with multiple NLRB complaints amid union organizing efforts and numerous lawsuits alleging widespread racial discrimination at its factories. Tesla, on its part, has asserted that it does not tolerate discrimination.

As the case against SpaceX unfolds, industry observers and labor advocates will be closely following the outcome, as it may have implications not only for the affected workers but also for the broader labor rights landscape.