What role does the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) play in employment law?

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) plays a crucial role in employment law by protecting workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively. Established by the National Labor Relations Act, the NLRB is responsible for ensuring that employees can freely choose to join labor unions, engage in collective bargaining, and participate in other protected concerted activities without facing employer interference or retaliation. This includes investigating unfair labor practices by employers and unions, conducting elections for union representation, and facilitating negotiations between employers and employee organizations.

The NLRB's authority is significant because it provides employees with a framework to advocate for better working conditions, wages, and benefits through collective action. This collective bargaining is essential in empowering workers, balancing power dynamics between employees and employers, and fostering fair labor practices in the workplace.