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US Labour Law

NLRA (National Labor Relations Act)

The US federal law (1935) that protects workers' rights to organise, join unions, bargain collectively, and engage in "concerted activities" — and prohibits unfair labour practices by employers and unions.

Legal Definition

The National Labor Relations Act 1935 (the Wagner Act), administered by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), guarantees private sector employees the right to: form, join, or assist labour organisations; bargain collectively through representatives; and engage in concerted activities for mutual aid or protection. "Concerted activity" — protected even without a union — includes co-workers discussing wages, working together to improve conditions, or protesting employer conduct. Employers cannot retaliate for any of these activities.

📖 Constitutional / Statutory Basis: Commerce Clause of the US Constitution; upheld in NLRB v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. (1937)

Practical Example

Three warehouse workers are fired after they together complain to their manager about safety conditions. Even without a union, this "concerted activity" is protected under the NLRA. The workers file an unfair labour practice charge with the NLRB. The NLRB investigates and orders reinstatement with back pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the NLRA protect me even if I'm not in a union in the US?
Yes. The NLRA's protection for "concerted activity" applies to non-union workers too. If you and at least one other employee act together to improve your working conditions — even just by discussing your wages or collectively complaining to your employer — you are engaging in protected concerted activity.
Who enforces the NLRA and how do I file a complaint?
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) enforces the NLRA. File an unfair labor practice charge at nlrb.gov within 6 months of the unlawful conduct. NLRB regional offices conduct investigations and can seek reinstatement, back pay, and other remedies.

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