Submitted by Diane Farsetta on
California's Labor and Workforce Development Agency produced and distributed a video news release, narrated by a former reporter, that promotes Governor Schwarzenegger's "plan to modify rules detailing when and how employers are to provide meal and rest breaks." The Los Angeles Times noted, "Unlike an actual news report," the VNR "does not provide views critical of the proposed changes." Some 18 stations played portions of the VNR, which labor groups and Democratic officials called "propaganda." California's labor undersecretary said the VNR was "clearly labeled as an administration production," and they will produce more, as VNRs are "an effective way to reach residents." A Democratic Assemblyman said, "We all know Gov. Schwarzenegger is good at making movies. It appears that talent has carried over to government work."
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