What is an unfair labor practice?
An unfair labor practice is when a company or employer does something to interfere with the rights of their employees that are protected by labor laws. In the state of Washington, both employers and employees are protected by the Washington State Labor Relations Act (WSRLA). This act outlines several unfair labor practices, including discriminating against an employee because they have chosen to engage in union activities; refusing to recognize and bargain with a union; and retaliating against an employee for filing a formal complaint against an employer for violating labor laws. Employers are also prohibited from threatening or intimidating workers, interrogating them about their protected rights, and taking any action to prevent them from forming or joining a union. If employees are being asked to sign legal documents that contain unfair labor practices, such as waiving their rights to form or join a union, then they can file a complaint with the Washington State Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC). It is important to note that unfair labor practices may also be committed by unions. Unions have the right to bargain collectively, but they must do it in a lawful and ethical manner. Unfair labor practices by unions include coercive behavior, engaging in jurisdictional strikes, and engaging in illegal picketing. If employees believe that they are the victims of unfair labor practices, they can file a charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). After receiving the charge, the NLRB will investigate to determine if the labor practice is in fact unlawful. If the NLRB finds that the labor practice is illegal, it may order that the practice be stopped and that the employee be compensated with back pay and benefits for the period of time that the illegal practice was in effect.
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