What does the term "mandatory subjects of bargaining" refer to?

The term "mandatory subjects of bargaining" specifically refers to topics that must be negotiated by employers and unions during collective bargaining processes. These subjects are essential to the labor-management relationship and typically include issues such as wages, hours of work, employee benefits, and other conditions of employment. The law requires that these topics be discussed and negotiated in good faith, as they directly impact the workers' terms and conditions of employment.

Understanding this term is vital because it delineates the foundational aspects of collective bargaining that employers and unions are legally obligated to address. While there may be other topics that can be discussed, the emphasis on mandatory subjects indicates that these are non-negotiable in the sense that they must be present in bargaining discussions. This distinction is central to labor relations and helps define the responsibilities of both parties in the bargaining process.