What is the primary federal law governing labor relations in the United States?

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) is the primary federal law governing labor relations in the United States. Enacted in 1935, the NLRA established the rights of employees to organize, engage in collective bargaining, and participate in concerted activities for their mutual aid and protection. It also created the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which enforces the provisions of the Act and oversees disputes between labor unions and employers.

The significance of the NLRA lies in its role in promoting fair labor practices and maintaining the balance of power between employers and employees. The NLRA provides workers with the legal framework to form unions, negotiate with employers over wages, working conditions, and other employment terms, ultimately contributing to improved labor conditions.

Other laws mentioned, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, focus primarily on wage and hour standards, while the Family and Medical Leave Act addresses employee leave, and the Taft-Hartley Act amends the NLRA by placing restrictions on union activities. However, none serve as the foundational legislation specifically governing labor relations as comprehensively as the NLRA does.