Workers have the right, under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), to refuse to join a union. Requiring everyone who gets the benefit of the contract to be a union member solves the problem of so-called "free riders," who reap the windfall of the union's work but don't pay the price.
Can you quit the union?
NLRB, 473 U.S. 95 (1985), the United States Supreme Court held that union members have the right to resign their union membership at any time. Of course, the decision to resign is wholly yours. You can resign by simply sending your union a written letter stating that you are resigning effective immediately.
Can you ignore a union?
Many courts have held that unions have the power to discipline their members. This discipline can include imposing a significant fine upon and then suing you to enforce the payment of the fine. If you wish to avoid consequences like that, you cannot remain a member of the union and cross the picket line.
Why do people not want to join the union?
So why don't more workers join unions? The answer lies in the nation's outmoded labor laws. And in many cases, when workers cast their ballots, they fear if they vote in favor of joining a union, they will lose their jobs. It's illegal, but 25 percent of private-sector employers fire workers who try to form a union.Sep 5, 2006
What happens if I don't want to join a union?
If you don't join the union, or resign from membership, and notify the union that you don't want to pay full dues, the required fee must be limited to the union's proven costs of collective bargaining activities. Otherwise, the employee could be fined by the union.
Can I be forced to join a union?
Under the NLRA, you cannot be required to be a member of a union or pay it any monies as a condition of employment unless the collective bargaining agreement between your employer and your union contains a provision requiring all employees to either join the union or pay union fees.
Can you opt out of a union?
Regardless of where you live, the Supreme Court has ruled that you can resign union membership at any time. This is because all employees benefit from collective bargaining agreements, regardless of union membership status. Despite all of that, you may still have a right to pay reduced fees.
Why is it bad to join a union?
When unions demand higher wages, employers with limited funds may have to cut staff to pay higher wages. Union rules typically guarantee job security based on seniority, so a productive newer worker can be laid off while a less-productive worker with seniority stays. That's bad for you if you're new to the business.
Are there any downsides to joining a union?
The Drawbacks of a Union Work Life. Union dues and initiation fees. Dues can range from $200 to several hundred dollars per year, partially offsetting higher wages. Some unions also require a one-time initiation fee.