National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
The federal agency that enforces the National Labor Relations Act, conducts union elections, and investigates unfair labor practices.
Full definition
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is the independent federal agency created by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935 to enforce private-sector labor law in the United States. The NLRB has two principal functions: (1) conducting secret-ballot elections to determine whether employees wish to be represented by a union, and (2) investigating and prosecuting unfair labor practice (ULP) charges filed by employees, unions, or employers. The Board operates through regional offices around the country and is led by a five-member Board appointed by the President. The NLRB does not have jurisdiction over public-sector employees, who are covered by state public employment relations boards, or over certain workers excluded from the NLRA such as agricultural and domestic workers.
Related terms
Unfair Labor Practice (ULP)
Conduct by an employer or a union that violates Section 8 of the National Labor Relations Act.
Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
A legally binding contract negotiated between a union and an employer that governs wages, hours, and conditions of employment.
Bargaining Unit
The group of employees a union represents for purposes of collective bargaining, as determined by the NLRB or state board.
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