Labor Unions
Although union membership has been declining for years (especially in the private sector), unions are still a powerful workplace force in certain industries. Federal law gives employees the right to act collectively to improve their working conditions, whether by forming or joining a union or in other ways. Learn the rules for union elections, unionized workplaces, and more.
Learn about the federal laws that regulate the relationship between management and unions.
Can employees be required to join a union or pay dues?
Learn what collective bargaining is -- and which issues must be bargained between union and management.
Certain actions by employers or unions are illegal under federal labor law.
Union members can have a union rep present at interviews that may lead to discipline.
Employees have the right to strike, but not all strikes are legal.
Employers can't single out union discussions or activities for discipline.
Concerted activities to improve working conditions -- including online discussions among coworkers -- are legally protected.
Broad confidentiality requirements might not be legal under the NLRA.
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