What does it mean when a company forms a union?
A “company union” is generally recognized as being an organization that is not freely elected by the workforce, and over which an employer exerts some form of control.
Why would someone want to join or organize a union at their workplace?
Unions help employers create a more stable, productive workforce—where workers have a say in improving their jobs. Unions help bring workers out of poverty and into the middle class. In fact, in states where workers don’t have union rights, workers’ incomes are lower.
What happens to employees who object to union membership?
Even under a security agreement, employees who object to full union membership may continue as ‘core’ members and pay only that share of dues used directly for representation, such as collective bargaining and contract administration. Known as objectors, they are no longer full members but are still protected by the union contract.
Who are the members of a labor union?
All kinds of workers belong to labor unions, from teachers and police officers, to actors and doctors. Bargaining units are groups of people whom the union represents when it comes time to negotiate with the employer. Forming a bargaining unit happens in one of two ways.
Can a company suspend an employee for not being a union member?
Seeking the suspension, discharge or other punishment of an employee for not being a union member even if the employee has paid or offered to pay a lawful initiation fee and periodic fees thereafter.
Can a union fin you for crossing the picket line?
Fining employees who have validly resigned from the union for engaging in protected concerted activities following their resignation or for crossing an unlawful picket line. Engaging in picket line misconduct, such as threatening, assaulting, or barring non-strikers from the employer’s premises.
When does a labor union stop representing you?
If the union honestly believes that your case is not strong enough to continue, it may legally stop representing you.
Even under a security agreement, employees who object to full union membership may continue as ‘core’ members and pay only that share of dues used directly for representation, such as collective bargaining and contract administration. Known as objectors, they are no longer full members but are still protected by the union contract.
How can I tell if my job is in a union shop?
The type of shop that exists within a unionized bargaining unit will be spelled out in the contract between the union representing that unit and the employer. Ask the union representative for a copy of the contract governing your job before you sign up for union membership.
Do you have to work for a union to be a union?
However, some collective bargaining agreements — the contracts between the employer and the union — require a company to employ only union workers to do certain jobs. One major reason unions want these contracts is to share the burden of the union’s work.