NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp.

Definition

NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. is a landmark Supreme Court case from 1937 that upheld the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), affirming the federal government's right to regulate labor relations and protect workers' rights to organize. The ruling marked a significant shift in the balance of power between employers and employees, reinforcing the legitimacy of labor unions and the federal government's role in supporting collective bargaining.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The case arose when Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. fired employees for union activities, leading to a complaint filed with the NLRB.
2. The Supreme Court's decision in favor of the NLRB was a turning point that allowed for greater federal involvement in labor relations.
3. This ruling effectively expanded the interpretation of the Commerce Clause, stating that labor disputes could affect interstate commerce.
4. The decision established a precedent for future cases regarding labor rights and set the stage for a more favorable legal environment for unions.
5. NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. is often viewed as a crucial moment in the New Deal era, helping to legitimize workers' rights amid rising industrial conflicts.

Review Questions

• How did NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. influence the balance of power between labor unions and employers?
  • NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. significantly shifted the balance of power towards labor unions by affirming the federal government's authority to regulate labor relations under the National Labor Relations Act. The Supreme Court's ruling allowed for greater protection of workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining, thus empowering unions against employer retaliation. This decision marked a turning point in U.S. labor relations, legitimizing union activities that had previously been challenged by employers.
• Discuss how the ruling in NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. reflects broader trends in New Deal legislation.
  • The ruling in NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. reflects broader trends in New Deal legislation aimed at addressing economic instability and empowering workers during the Great Depression. By upholding the National Labor Relations Act, the Supreme Court reinforced the government’s role in protecting workers' rights and facilitating collective bargaining as a means to ensure fair labor practices. This decision mirrored other New Deal initiatives focused on recovery and reform, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering economic security through enhanced worker protections.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. on American labor relations and policy.
  • The long-term implications of NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. on American labor relations and policy have been profound, shaping the landscape for workers’ rights over subsequent decades. The case set a precedent for federal intervention in labor disputes and established key protections for union activities, influencing later legislation and judicial decisions that further supported organized labor. As a result, this ruling contributed to a more robust framework for collective bargaining and negotiation, which has been critical in protecting workers' rights throughout American history.

Related terms

National Labor Relations Act: A key piece of New Deal legislation enacted in 1935 aimed at protecting the rights of workers to organize, engage in collective bargaining, and take part in concerted activities.

National Labor Relations Board: A federal agency created by the NLRA that oversees labor relations and enforces the provisions of the Act, including investigating unfair labor practices.

Collective Bargaining: The process through which employers and unions negotiate terms and conditions of employment, including wages, working hours, and other workplace issues.