National Labor Relations Board

Definition

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is an independent federal agency established in 1935 under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) to protect the rights of private sector employees to organize and engage in collective bargaining. It oversees and enforces labor laws related to unionization, unfair labor practices, and employee representation, playing a critical role in shaping labor relations during Roosevelt's New Deal programs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NLRB was created to address issues arising from labor unrest during the Great Depression, promoting industrial peace and fair labor standards.
2. The agency has the authority to conduct elections for labor union representation and investigate unfair labor practices by employers or unions.
3. One of the NLRB's key functions is to protect employees' rights to join together for mutual aid and protection without fear of retaliation from employers.
4. Over the years, the NLRB has played a pivotal role in significant labor movements and strikes, helping shape the landscape of workers' rights in America.
5. The effectiveness and influence of the NLRB can fluctuate based on the political climate and leadership in Washington, impacting labor relations across various industries.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the National Labor Relations Board impact workers' rights during Roosevelt's New Deal?
  • The establishment of the National Labor Relations Board significantly enhanced workers' rights by providing a federal framework for organizing and collective bargaining. Under Roosevelt's New Deal, this agency empowered workers to join unions without fear of employer retaliation, leading to increased union membership and strengthened labor movements. This shift not only improved working conditions but also contributed to a more balanced power dynamic between employees and employers during a time of economic recovery.
• Analyze the role of the National Labor Relations Board in addressing unfair labor practices in the context of Roosevelt's New Deal policies.
  • The National Labor Relations Board plays a crucial role in addressing unfair labor practices by investigating complaints from employees regarding employer misconduct. During Roosevelt's New Deal, the NLRB enforced laws that prohibited employers from interfering with workers' rights to unionize or engage in collective bargaining. This enforcement was vital for establishing a more equitable labor environment as it provided a mechanism for employees to seek justice against exploitation and coercive tactics from management.
• Evaluate how the creation of the National Labor Relations Board reflects broader societal changes during the 1930s in America.
  • The creation of the National Labor Relations Board reflects broader societal changes during the 1930s as it marked a shift towards greater government intervention in economic affairs amid widespread hardship. The establishment of this agency highlighted the recognition of labor rights as essential components of American democracy, aligning with New Deal principles aimed at promoting social justice and economic recovery. This evolution not only underscored the importance of organized labor in advocating for worker rights but also indicated a growing acceptance of collective action as a means to achieve social change within a capitalist framework.

Related terms

National Labor Relations Act:

A landmark law passed in 1935 that granted workers the right to form unions and engage in collective bargaining, which led to the establishment of the NLRB.

Collective Bargaining: The process of negotiation between employers and a group of employees aimed at reaching agreements to regulate working conditions, wages, and other aspects of workers' compensation and rights.

Unfair Labor Practices: Actions by employers or unions that violate the rights of employees or employers under the National Labor Relations Act, which the NLRB addresses through investigations and resolutions.