Labor Law

This course addresses the rights of workers in the U.S. to engage in collective action, obtain union recognition, and collectively bargain with their employers. The focus is on the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), and the interplay between the National Labor Relations Board, an administrative agency, and the courts, but we will also discuss public-sector workers and unions. The NLRA declares it to be the policy of the United States to encourage the practice and procedure of collective bargaining, yet only six percent of private sector workers are covered by collective bargaining agreements. The course will consider why the law has failed to achieve this objective, while also addressing how the NLRA protects non-union workers who engage in concerted activities for mutual aid and protection. More generally, the course will provide students with the basic knowledge necessary for them to effectively practice labor law. Grading and Method of Evaluation: Letter grade with pass/fail option. Final exam.