Learn about the federal agency responsible for safeguarding employees’ rights to unionize and engage in collective bargaining. Prepare for your SHRM-SCP certification exam with this expert answer.
Table of Contents
Question
What federal agency has the responsibility to protect the self-organizing rights of employees?
Answer
The NLRB (National Labor Relations Board) was created to enforce the rights of employees to form unions and bargain collectively, to protect the rights of employers, and to investigate unfair labor practices by both unions and employers.
Explanation
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is the federal agency tasked with protecting the self-organizing rights of employees in the United States. Established by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935, also known as the Wagner Act, the NLRB serves several critical functions:
- Enforcing employees’ rights to form unions and engage in collective bargaining
- Safeguarding employers’ rights in labor-management relations
- Investigating and remedying unfair labor practices committed by unions or employers
The NLRB oversees the union election process, ensuring it is fair and free from coercion. It also adjudicates disputes between labor and management, and prosecutes violations of the NLRA.
Some key employee rights protected by the NLRB include the right to:
- Discuss wages, benefits, and working conditions with coworkers
- Take action with coworkers to improve working conditions
- Attempt to form a union in the workplace
- Engage in collective bargaining
- Go on strike in some circumstances
The NLRB’s role is crucial in maintaining the balance of power between employees and employers, and ensuring workers can freely exercise their rights under the NLRA without fear of retaliation or discrimination. As an HR professional, understanding the NLRB’s function is essential for ensuring compliance with labor laws and fostering positive employee relations.
SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the SHRM-SCP exam and earn SHRM-SCP certification.