Unions are very prevalent in the United States now so then it has been in the past year. Labor union s are most associated with Democratic Party and supports them during election. Labor union representatives are responsible for collectively bargaining over wages, benefit, working conditions, and represent employees when disputes arises with their management over violations. When unions are powerful, they boost the incomes of not only their members but also of nonunion workers in their sector or region. Unions have been around for a long time, since before World War I, but employers were not obligate to adhere to any laws are policies. Collective bargaining was allowed for railroad employees by the federal government acting under the power of the Commerce Clause. The great depression brought about the creation of the National Labor Relations Act (1935) which resulted from previous legislation called the National Industrial Recovery Act. Union membership grew during this time as America was changing from an agricultural society to an industrial society (Madison, 2014).
Unions are very beneficial because they speak volume and it assists employees with getting their voice heard compared to if it is only one individual. An employee that is not in the union can be let go at any time, but a unionized employee has a contract that will provided a grievance and arbitration procedure in the event of an adverse employer action. Unions also able to bargaining with employers for higher wages, benefit packages, and vacation time. It also increases job stability and recognizes seniority rights for the employees.
Reference
Madison, James (2014). Labor Unions In America: History, Pros, Cons, and Resources. Retrieved from: http://www.thefreeresource.com/labor-unions-in-america-history-pros-cons-and-resources#sthash.OEeFCU2N.dpuf