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Workplace Rights
The National Labor Relations Board administers the National Labor Relations
Act (NLRA) which oversees private sector labor relations, i.e., the relationship
between employers, unions and employees, and the rights of employees to form,
join or assist a labor organization and to bargain collectively through
representatives of their own choosing or to refrain from such activities. The
NLRB processes charges, involving allegations that an employer or union is
violating the NLRA. The agency also processes petitions in which a union seeks
to represent employees for collective-bargaining purposes or petitions in which
employees no longer wish the union which currently represents them to continue
to do so.
If you think the NLRA might apply to your situation, your next step should be to read in our Procedures Guide about filing a charge. If you are interested in forming/joining a union, or in no longer being represented by one, read the Guide's instructions on
filing a petition. For more online help, also consult the Frequently
Asked Questions for quick answers to common questions.
For us to be able to help you with a workplace problem, you must be within NLRB jurisdiction -- which includes most employers in the private sector. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protects non-union and union employees against discrimination based on union-related activity or group action ("concerted activity"). However, employers generally can make unilateral decisions about most personnel actions, including discharge -- unless employees are protected by an employment contract or collective bargaining agreement, and absent discrimination in violation of civil rights laws.
Employees NOT in NLRB Jurisdiction
Go to the Referral Guide or the Frequently
Asked Questions for information about the responsibilities of various other federal and state agencies that may assist you with different job-related problems.
NOTE: If you have a question about a workplace problem, we encourage you to call an Information Officer of the NLRB who will take the time to provide appropriate assistance to you. Information Officers are available by phone or by walking into our Regional Offices during normal business hours. Because questions about your rights warrant a full understanding of the facts involved, we generally discourage communications about your workplace problems by E-mail.
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