National Labor Relations Act

Definition

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), also known as the Wagner Act, was enacted in 1935 to protect the rights of employees and employers, to encourage collective bargaining, and to curtail certain private sector labor and management practices that could harm the general welfare of workers. It established the legal framework for union organizing and collective bargaining in the United States, addressing the growing labor movements during a time of economic hardship and industrial unrest.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NLRA was a significant piece of legislation during the New Deal era, aimed at addressing the needs of workers amidst the Great Depression.
2. The act prohibits employers from engaging in unfair labor practices, such as interfering with union activities or retaliating against employees for union involvement.
3. The NLRA applies specifically to private sector employees and does not extend to public sector workers, who are governed by different laws.
4. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is responsible for overseeing elections for labor union representation and investigating unfair labor practices.
5. The passage of the NLRA led to a significant increase in union membership and power in the United States during the mid-20th century.

Review Questions

• How did the National Labor Relations Act influence worker rights and labor movements in the United States?
  • The National Labor Relations Act significantly advanced worker rights by legally recognizing the right to organize and engage in collective bargaining. This act empowered workers by providing them with a structured framework to negotiate better wages, benefits, and working conditions through their unions. Consequently, it catalyzed labor movements across various industries, leading to increased union membership and strengthened advocacy for workers' rights.
• Evaluate the impact of the National Labor Relations Board on labor relations following the enactment of the NLRA.
  • The National Labor Relations Board has played a crucial role in shaping labor relations since the NLRA's enactment. By overseeing union elections and investigating unfair labor practices, the NLRB has upheld workers' rights and ensured compliance with labor laws. Its enforcement mechanisms have helped to maintain balance between employers and employees, fostering an environment where collective bargaining can occur more effectively.
• Analyze how the passage of the National Labor Relations Act reflects broader economic and social changes occurring in the United States during the 1930s.
  • The passage of the National Labor Relations Act reflects significant economic and social changes in the United States during the 1930s, particularly in response to the Great Depression's impact on workers. As unemployment rose and working conditions deteriorated, there was a growing demand for fair treatment and better wages. The NLRA was a legislative response that not only aimed to stabilize labor relations but also acknowledged the vital role that organized labor could play in improving economic conditions for workers. This act marked a shift towards greater government intervention in economic affairs to protect vulnerable populations, indicating a broader acceptance of collective action during challenging times.

Related terms

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

National Labor Relations Board (NLRB): An independent federal agency created by the NLRA to enforce labor laws and protect workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining.

Labor Union: An organization of workers formed to protect their rights and interests, primarily through collective bargaining with employers.