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CandleFocus Glossary Editor
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What Is a Labor Union?
A labor union is a group of workers who have organized together to gain collective bargaining power from their employers. Through collective bargaining, these workers are able to negotiate for better wages, working conditions, and other benefits. They also use their power to advocate for worker rights and workplace safety.
Labor unions take different forms, depending on the industry and size of the business. In the United States, many labor unions are part of national federations such as the AFL-CIO, but there are also independent local union organizations. A labor union will often have a local chapter for each office or location, and these chapters will be connected to and charter a national labor union organization.
Typically, labor unions will organize within an industry and recruit members who share similar job functions and duties. For example, teachers in a school district might join a labor union. In other cases, labor unions may organize and represent an entire workforce at a certain business or plant.
Labor Unions and the Law
In the United States, labor unions fall under the jurisdiction of various federal and state laws. Under the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, employers are required to actively bargain in good faith with a labor union at their workplace. The scope of negotiations can cover issues such as wages, working conditions, and the duration and conditions of employment.
Although employers must bargain in good faith with a labor union, they are not obligated to accept any specific terms. However, if an employer refuses to bargain, it can be found guilty of “unfair labor practices” which can be punished by fines, backpay, reinstatement of terminated employees, and other sanctions.
The Future of Labor Unions
In recent years, labor union membership in the United States has been in decline. This reflects shifts in the American economy; for instance, the increase in automation and part-time work has meant fewer full-time union jobs. Additionally, changes to the legal landscape have made it more difficult for unions to organize, resulting in decreased membership numbers.
Despite this decline, many labor unions remain strong and effective in advocating for and protecting workers’ rights. Labor unions still represent a significant portion of America’s workforce, particularly in certain industries. Looking ahead, labor unions may take on an even greater role in the face of growing income inequality, workplace technology, and other challenges. As such, labor unions will continue to be an important part of the American work landscape.
What Is a Labor Union?
A labor union is a group of workers who have organized together to gain collective bargaining power from their employers. Through collective bargaining, these workers are able to negotiate for better wages, working conditions, and other benefits. They also use their power to advocate for worker rights and workplace safety.
Labor unions take different forms, depending on the industry and size of the business. In the United States, many labor unions are part of national federations such as the AFL-CIO, but there are also independent local union organizations. A labor union will often have a local chapter for each office or location, and these chapters will be connected to and charter a national labor union organization.
Typically, labor unions will organize within an industry and recruit members who share similar job functions and duties. For example, teachers in a school district might join a labor union. In other cases, labor unions may organize and represent an entire workforce at a certain business or plant.
Labor Unions and the Law
In the United States, labor unions fall under the jurisdiction of various federal and state laws. Under the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, employers are required to actively bargain in good faith with a labor union at their workplace. The scope of negotiations can cover issues such as wages, working conditions, and the duration and conditions of employment.
Although employers must bargain in good faith with a labor union, they are not obligated to accept any specific terms. However, if an employer refuses to bargain, it can be found guilty of “unfair labor practices” which can be punished by fines, backpay, reinstatement of terminated employees, and other sanctions.
The Future of Labor Unions
In recent years, labor union membership in the United States has been in decline. This reflects shifts in the American economy; for instance, the increase in automation and part-time work has meant fewer full-time union jobs. Additionally, changes to the legal landscape have made it more difficult for unions to organize, resulting in decreased membership numbers.
Despite this decline, many labor unions remain strong and effective in advocating for and protecting workers’ rights. Labor unions still represent a significant portion of America’s workforce, particularly in certain industries. Looking ahead, labor unions may take on an even greater role in the face of growing income inequality, workplace technology, and other challenges. As such, labor unions will continue to be an important part of the American work landscape.