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The National Labor Relations Act

The National Labor Relations Act was passed in 1935 and is most commonly referred to as the Wagner Act. It is a national law that allows private sector workers to organize and form labor unions, as well as stage demonstrations or strike to engage in collective bargaining.

However, the National Labor Relations Act does not cover every industry in the private sector. Specifically, this act does not apply to:

• Agricultural workers
• Supervisors
• Independent contractors
• Individuals / organizations covered by the Railway Labor Act

The National Labor Relations Board

Another important effect of the National Labor Relations Act was the establishment of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The NLRB has the power and ability to investigate cases of unfair business practices and also to hold elections for workers who are trying to decide if they want to be represented by a union.

The National Labor Relations Act, however, was not very popular with most employers in the United States, and many employers refused to recognize it and honor its conditions. This changed, however, in 1937 with the Supreme Court case National Labor Relations Board v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corporation. Following this case, companies were forced to adhere to and honor the conditions set forth in the National Labor Relations Act.

Opposition to the National Labor Relations Act

As mentioned above, this act has experienced a lot of opposition, and in fact, there have been a number of amendments submitted that have attempted to either eliminate the act entirely, or to limit some of its power and influence. The only amendment that achieved any success was the Taft-Hartley amendment of 1947.

Contact a Los Angeles Employment Lawyer

If you or someone you know has experienced difficulties at work due to union involvement, you need a legal professional to help protect your rights and your job. Contact Los Angeles employment lawyer Perry Smith today at 888-356-2529 to schedule a consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.