National Labor Relations Act

Definition

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), enacted in 1935, is a foundational piece of labor legislation in the United States that aims to protect the rights of employees to organize and collectively bargain. The NLRA established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which oversees labor relations and resolves disputes between employers and employees, marking a significant shift in federal policy towards labor rights during the New Deal era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NLRA was a key component of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies aimed at addressing economic instability during the Great Depression.
2. This legislation marked a significant federal recognition of workers' rights to unionize and engage in collective bargaining without employer interference.
3. The act prohibits various unfair labor practices by employers, including discrimination against union members and interference in union activities.
4. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was established under the NLRA to enforce the act and provide a legal framework for resolving disputes between workers and employers.
5. The NLRA significantly contributed to the growth of unions in the United States, leading to increased bargaining power for workers during a time of economic recovery.

Review Questions

• How did the National Labor Relations Act change the relationship between employers and employees?
  • The National Labor Relations Act fundamentally altered the employer-employee relationship by granting workers the legal right to organize into unions and engage in collective bargaining. This shift empowered workers to negotiate more effectively for better wages and working conditions, while also protecting them from retaliatory actions by employers. The establishment of the NLRB further ensured that disputes could be resolved fairly, leading to a more balanced power dynamic in labor relations.
• Evaluate the significance of the National Labor Relations Act within the broader context of the New Deal and its impact on American labor movements.
  • The National Labor Relations Act played a crucial role in the New Deal by formally recognizing and protecting workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining. This recognition fostered an environment where labor unions could thrive and advocate for workers' interests, leading to significant growth in union membership during this period. The act also set a precedent for future labor legislation, reinforcing the government's commitment to supporting labor rights as a means of promoting economic recovery and social justice.
• Analyze how the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act have influenced modern labor relations in the United States.
  • The provisions of the National Labor Relations Act have had lasting effects on modern labor relations by establishing fundamental rights for workers that continue to be enforced today. The NLRA's framework for collective bargaining remains essential for unions as they negotiate contracts with employers, while the NLRB continues to play a vital role in resolving disputes and enforcing labor laws. Additionally, challenges such as changes in the economy and shifts in employment patterns have prompted ongoing discussions about potential reforms to adapt the NLRA to contemporary labor issues, reflecting its continued relevance in American society.

Related terms

Wagner Act:

Another name for the National Labor Relations Act, named after Senator Robert F. Wagner, who was instrumental in its passage.

National Labor Relations Board: A federal agency created by the NLRA that enforces labor laws, oversees union elections, and investigates unfair labor practices.

Collective Bargaining: The process by which workers, through their unions, negotiate contracts with their employers regarding wages, working conditions, and other employment terms.