The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is an independent federal agency created in the United States to enforce and protect the rights of employees and employers in relation to collective bargaining and workplace issues. NLRB's primary role is to administer the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which grants employees the right to organize and collectively bargain with their employers.
The NLRB facilitates the resolution of disputes between unions, employees, and employers through several mechanisms. It conducts elections to determine if employees wish to be represented by labor unions, investigates and prosecutes unfair labor practices, and oversees the resolution of disputes between employers and unions. It also performs the function of certifying collective bargaining units and mediating disagreements between employers and unions during the contract negotiation process.
In addition to these adjudicative functions, the NLRB also engages in rulemaking activities to establish and enforce policies that govern labor-management relations. It develops regulations and issues guidelines to provide clarity and guidance to employees, unions, and employers regarding their rights and obligations under the NLRA.
The NLRB comprises a board of five members appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. These members serve staggered terms and are responsible for making decisions, setting policies, and overseeing the enforcement of the NLRA.
Overall, the NLRB ensures the fair and equitable treatment of employees and employers, promotes collective bargaining as a means to resolve disputes, and strives to maintain harmonious labor-management relations in the United States.
