Definition
The National Mediation Board (NMB) is a U.S. federal government agency established under the Railway Labor Act (RLA) of 1926. Its primary purpose is to manage and resolve labor-management disputes in the railway and airline industries. The NMB comprises three members appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The Board plays a crucial role in designating bargaining representatives for employees and facilitating the mediation process between labor unions and employers to prevent disruptions in rail and air transport services.
Examples
- Bargaining Representative Designation: The NMB conducts elections for labor unions to serve as bargaining representatives in the rail and airline industries. For example, if a group of railway employees seeks to be represented by a union, the NMB will oversee the election process to ensure a fair vote.
- Mediation Services: During a labor dispute, such as a disagreement over contract negotiations between an airline and its pilots’ union, the NMB steps in as a neutral mediator to help both parties reach an agreement, preventing potential strikes or service interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the National Mediation Board (NMB)?
The NMB is designed to handle labor-management disputes in the railway and airline industries, offering services such as mediation, representation elections, and arbitration to maintain labor harmony and prevent disruptions.
How does the NMB select bargaining representatives?
The NMB conducts secret-ballot elections where employees can vote on whether they want to be represented by a particular labor union. The union receiving a majority of the votes is designated as the bargaining representative.
What industries fall under the jurisdiction of the NMB?
The NMB’s jurisdiction covers the railway and airline industries, including freight railroads, passenger rail services, and both domestic and international airlines.
What happens if mediation fails in a labor dispute?
If mediation fails, the NMB may encourage both parties to agree to binding arbitration. If arbitration is not accepted, the NMB can release the parties from mediation, after which a “cooling-off” period is enacted. If no resolution is found, a strike or lockout may legally proceed.
How are the members of the NMB appointed?
NMB members are appointed by the President of the United States and must be confirmed by the Senate. The Board is designed to be bipartisan, with no more than two members from the same political party.
Related Terms
- Railway Labor Act (RLA): The U.S. federal law that established the NMB, aimed at avoiding service disruptions in the railway and airline industries due to labor disputes.
- Mediation: A voluntary process facilitated by a neutral third party to help resolve disputes between labor and management.
- Arbitration: A method of dispute resolution where an impartial arbitrator makes a binding decision to resolve a conflict.
- Bargaining Unit: A group of employees with a clear and identifiable community of interest who are represented by a single labor union in dealings with employers over wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
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“The Railway Labor Act” by Douglas Leslie
A comprehensive guide to understanding the Railway Labor Act and its implications on labor relations in the railway and airline industries. -
“Labor Relations in the Aviation and Aerospace Industries” by Robert W. Kaps
An insightful book that delves into labor relations specific to the aviation and aerospace sectors, including the role of the NMB. -
“Collective Bargaining in the Private Sector” by Paul F. Clark, John Thomas Delaney, and Ann C. Frost
A detailed exploration of collective bargaining processes within various private sectors, including those overseen by the NMB.
Fundamentals of National Mediation Board: Business Law Basics Quiz
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