Collective Bargaining Laws and Regulations

Full Video Transcript

Sometimes conditions in employment are negotiated not between an individual and an employer, but rather between a group of employees and the employer. This is often the case for government workers, teachers, and union workers, for example. Groups of employees are represented by a few individuals who negotiate with the employer. Then, the entire group of employees become bound by the agreement. Both state and federal laws govern the collective bargaining process and collective bargaining agreements. The National Labor Relations Act gives employees the right to bargain collectively and to join unions. The NLRA requires employers and employees to bargain in good faith. While the employers and employees are not required to reach an agreement, the tactics that they may use to negotiate are regulated by the NLRA. State laws are also important to negotiations and disputes. Many state laws require the parties to submit collective bargaining disputes to arbitration, for example. Collective bargaining laws and regulations seek to protect the rights of employees and employers and to make the negotiation process more productive.