How Does Union Representation Work Under NLRA

A union organizing campaign can start either because the employees in the workplace have contacted the union or the union on its own seeks to organize the workers. The first step in an organizing campaign is to determine whether the employees have any interest in having a union represent them. The union asks the employees to show their interest by signing an authorization card. This card indicates that the employee is interested in union representation. If at least 30 percent of the workers sign cards, then the union can ask the NLRB to hold a secret ballot election. Before the election is held, there is usually time for both the union and employer to campaign among the workers, discussing the pros and cons of union representation. The election itself is usually held at the employer's place of business so that it is easy for the workers to vote. The NLRB monitors the election. If the union wins the election it becomes the bargaining agent for the employees and negotiates a collective bargaining agreement with the employer. If the union loses the election the status quo prevails. The key point is that it is up to the employees to decide whether or not they want a union; it is their choice to make.