The NLRB regional office has filed an unfair labor practice complaint against the turkey processor for actions taken at its Faribault plant. Workers there have been engaged in a union organizing drive with United Food & Commercial Workers Local 789.

"There has been a whole pattern of harassment" at Jennie-O, said Bernie Hesse, director of special projects at Local 789. "We\'re pleased with the board ruling.

"However, it just points to the difficulty workers have in organizing under the current law – and the need to pass the Employee Free Choice Act," he said.

This week, the U.S. Senate is considering the Employee Free Choice Act, which would make it easier for workers to join unions and improve their standard of living. Companies that violate worker rights would face stronger penalties under the proposed legislation.

The NLRB complaint says Jennie-O employees were asked to sign anti-union petitions. It also says supervisors gave employees the impression that the company had union activities under surveillance.

The company is expected to appeal, a process that can take months and often years.