What are the laws concerning collective bargaining agreements?

Collective bargaining agreements are legal documents in which employers and employee representatives (i.e., unions) agree upon terms of employment, such as wages, hours, and working conditions. In Pennsylvania, the collective bargaining process is governed by the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Act (PLRA). Under the PLRA, employers and employee representatives are required to bargain in good faith. This means that they must discuss the proposed terms of employment and make a reasonable effort to reach an agreement. If the employers and employee representatives cannot agree on certain terms, the PLRA provides for compulsory mediation. The PLRA also prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for participating in collective bargaining. It also requires employers to provide the same terms and conditions of employment (e.g., wages) to all similarly situated employees who are members of a union. The PLRA further states that collective bargaining agreements are binding and must be upheld by both parties. This means that employers must abide by the terms of the agreement and employees must fulfill their obligations under the labor contract. The PLRA also guards employees against discrimination by employers in the hiring, promotion, and discipline of employees based on union membership. Finally, it requires employers to provide information to employees regarding the collective bargaining agreement upon request.

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