A Denver District Court Judge has rejected most of the restrictions sought by King Soopers on striking workers who are picketing at its stores. The union, United Food & Commercial Workers Union Local No. 7, had asked for limits such as no more than six people at a time and no marching in parking lots. However, Judge Sarah B. Wallace ruled that these restrictions were not needed to ensure safety.
The court also rejected King Soopers’ request to prevent picketers from using heating devices or playing amplified music. The judge noted that the number of alleged violations by picketers was limited, especially considering there are around 80 stores and thousands of workers participating in the strike.
The union expressed relief at the ruling, saying it was a “massive win” for striking workers and a “huge loss” for King Soopers. Workers can now continue to peacefully protest outside store entrances without worrying about restrictions on their activities.
In a memo, the union’s general counsel stated that picketers can still express themselves by waving signs, talking to drivers, or standing off to the side but not blocking access. Temporary structures such as tents and canopies are also prohibited from being set up near store entrances.
King Soopers’ president Joe Kelley praised the court’s decision, saying it supports their commitment to safety for everyone involved. However, the union argued that King Soopers was trying to silence workers and prevent them from warming up on the picket line.
Source: https://www.denverpost.com/2025/02/14/denver-judge-ruling-king-soopers-strike