National Labor Relations Act

Definition

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) is a landmark U.S. law enacted in 1935 that protects the rights of employees to organize, engage in collective bargaining, and take part in other concerted activities for their mutual aid or protection. This act played a crucial role in shaping labor relations and workers' rights in the United States, highlighting the importance of fair labor practices within the context of business ethics and corporate responsibility.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NLRA was passed as part of the New Deal legislation during the Great Depression to address issues related to workers' rights and economic recovery.
2. It established key rights for workers, including the right to form unions, engage in collective bargaining, and participate in strikes without employer retaliation.
3. The Act also prohibits unfair labor practices by employers, such as interfering with union activities or discriminating against employees for union involvement.
4. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was created to enforce the provisions of the NLRA and ensure compliance with labor laws.
5. Over time, the NLRA has been amended and interpreted in various ways, impacting labor relations and business ethics throughout its history.

Review Questions

• How did the National Labor Relations Act change the landscape of worker rights in the United States?
  • The National Labor Relations Act significantly changed worker rights by formally recognizing the right of employees to organize and engage in collective bargaining. This law empowered workers to form unions and negotiate better wages, benefits, and working conditions without fear of retaliation from employers. It marked a shift toward a more balanced power dynamic between workers and management, laying the groundwork for modern labor relations.
• Discuss the role of the National Labor Relations Board in enforcing the National Labor Relations Act.
  • The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) plays a vital role in enforcing the National Labor Relations Act by investigating unfair labor practices and ensuring that employees' rights to organize are protected. The NLRB has the authority to conduct elections for union representation and intervene when employers violate labor laws. By acting as an independent agency, the NLRB helps maintain fair labor practices and promotes responsible business behavior by holding companies accountable.
• Evaluate how changes to the National Labor Relations Act over time have impacted labor relations and business ethics.
  • Changes to the National Labor Relations Act over time reflect evolving attitudes toward labor relations and business ethics. Amendments and court interpretations have shifted the balance of power between employees and employers, influencing collective bargaining processes and workplace dynamics. For instance, recent rulings have addressed issues like worker classification and gig economy employment, showing how labor laws adapt to new economic realities. This ongoing evolution highlights the importance of aligning business practices with ethical standards that respect workers' rights.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining: The process of negotiation between employers and a group of employees aimed at reaching agreements to regulate working conditions.

Labor Union: An organized association of workers formed to protect and further their rights and interests, often through collective bargaining.

National Labor Relations Board (NLRB): An independent federal agency created by the NLRA to oversee and enforce labor laws, including the right to organize and bargain collectively.