Here is a summary of the major laws affecting workers in the United States.

Passed in 1935 as part of the New Deal, the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) gives workers certain legal rights, including the right to form unions, and requires employers to bargain with the union over wages, hours, and working conditions.

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) enforces this law. Read UAWD’s updates on the NLRB.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that
union‐represented employees have the
right to ask for a union representative
during questioning by a supervisor, security
personnel or manager if the answers to
those questions could reasonably result in
discipline or discharge. These rights are
called Weingarten rights.

If you are called to an interview of this
nature, you must tell the employer that you
want a union representative right before or
during the interview. The employer does
not have to remind you of this right.
If the employer refuses your request and
continues to question you, you can refuse to
answer. The employer may be guilty of
violating labor law and you should consult
with your union representative ASAP.

As soon as the employer contacts you to ask
questions about a matter that you think could
result in your discipline or discharge, request
union representation.

Here’s what to say to the employer to request
your union representative and preserve your
rights:

If this discussion could in any way lead to my being disciplined or terminated, or affect my personal working conditions, I respectfully request that my union representative, officer or steward be present at the meeting. Without representation, I choose not to answer any questions.