Learn About Starting a Workplace Union

Understanding What a Workplace Union Is and How It Works

A workplace union is an organization formed by employees who join together to negotiate with their employer about wages, working conditions, and benefits. The basic idea is that workers have more bargaining power when they act as a group rather than as individuals. When employees form a union, they elect representatives who speak on their behalf during negotiations with management.

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 10.1% of wage and salary workers in the United States belonged to unions in 2023. Union membership varies significantly by industry and location. For example, public sector workers have higher unionization rates than private sector workers. In 2023, about 33.5% of public sector employees were union members, compared to 6.1% of private sector employees.

Unions operate through a democratic process. Members pay dues—typically ranging from 1.5% to 2.5% of their gross pay—which fund the union's operations, staff, and legal services. In exchange, union members receive representation in workplace disputes, contract negotiations, and grievance procedures. A union contract is a binding agreement between the employer and the union that outlines wages, hours, job security protections, and other working conditions.

There are different types of unions. Some are craft unions, which represent workers in specific trades like electricians or carpenters. Others are industrial unions, which represent all workers in a particular industry regardless of their specific job. Still others are public sector unions, which represent government employees. Each type operates slightly differently but follows the same basic principle of collective bargaining.

Practical takeaway: Understanding union structure helps you decide if unionization might address your workplace concerns. Research unions in your industry to learn how they operate and what they negotiate for their members.

The Legal Framework Governing Workplace Unionization

In the United States, the right to form unions is protected by federal law, primarily the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), passed in 1935. This law gives workers the right to organize, form unions, and engage in collective bargaining. It also protects workers from retaliation by employers for union activities. However, there are important exceptions and variations in how these laws apply.

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The NLRA covers most private sector employees, but it excludes certain groups. Agricultural workers, domestic employees, independent contractors, and supervisors are not covered by the NLRA. Public sector employees are covered by different laws. The Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute covers federal employees, while state and local government employees are covered by various state laws, which differ significantly from state to state.

When workers want to form a union, they typically petition the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), an independent federal agency. The NLRB conducts secret ballot elections to determine whether workers want union representation. To proceed with an election, typically at least 30% of workers in a proposed bargaining unit must sign union authorization cards or petitions. If the union wins the election—meaning a majority of workers voting choose the union—the employer is legally required to bargain with the union in good faith.

State laws can provide additional protections or restrictions beyond federal law. Some states have "right to work" laws, which mean workers cannot be required to join a union or pay union dues as a condition of employment. Other states allow union security agreements, where all workers in a bargaining unit must pay union fees. As of 2024, 28 states have right-to-work laws. Additionally, some states have stronger protections for public sector unions, while others significantly restrict them.

Practical takeaway: Before pursuing unionization, research both federal law and your state's specific labor laws, as these significantly affect how unions operate and what workers must pay. Contact the NLRB's regional office for information specific to your situation.

Steps for Organizing and Forming a Union at Your Workplace

The process of forming a union typically begins with worker interest and education. If you and your coworkers believe unionization might benefit you, the first step is to learn about unions in your industry and field. You can research what other unions have negotiated, what dues costs, and what the process involves. Many unions have websites with information, or you can speak with workers at other unionized workplaces in your field.

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Once there is genuine interest, the next step involves contacting a union that represents workers in your industry or field. Union organizers can meet with interested employees to discuss concerns, answer questions, and explain the process. These meetings are often held outside the workplace, such as at union offices, coffee shops, or workers' homes, to maintain privacy. During this phase, workers learn about the union's structure, what it negotiates for, and what membership involves.

If workers decide to move forward, the union typically helps interested employees sign authorization cards or petitions. These documents indicate that a worker supports forming a union and wants a representation election. Federal law requires that at least 30% of workers in a proposed bargaining unit sign these cards before the NLRB will consider conducting an election. Some campaigns aim to get 50% or more of signatures before filing, which strengthens the campaign and shows momentum.

Once sufficient signatures are gathered, the union files a petition with the NLRB's regional office. The NLRB then investigates to determine the appropriate bargaining unit—which workers would be represented by the union. The employer gets to see the petition and may challenge the proposed unit. If disputes arise about who should be included, the NLRB holds hearings to decide. Once the unit is determined, the NLRB schedules a secret ballot election, typically held within a few weeks to a few months after the petition is filed.

During the campaign period between filing and the election, both the union and employer communicate with workers. The union explains why unionization could benefit workers, while the employer typically presents arguments against unionization. Federal law protects workers' right to support the union, but it also protects employers' right to express views against unionization. If the union wins the election, the NLRB certifies it as the workers' representative, and the employer must bargain with the union over wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Practical takeaway: Document your workplace concerns before reaching out to a union. Keep records of wages, hours, safety issues, or other problems that the union might address in negotiations. This documentation helps organizers understand your situation and strengthens the campaign.

What Union Membership Involves and What to Expect

Union membership means you are part of a democratic organization where members vote on major decisions. Once a union is certified at your workplace, you typically have the option to join (in right-to-work states) or may be required to pay union fees (in non-right-to-work states), though you may still have options about whether to become a full member. As a union member, you pay monthly or weekly dues, which are usually deducted from your paycheck. The average union dues are approximately 1.5% to 2.5% of gross pay, though this varies by union and industry.

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Union membership provides several things in return for dues payment. First, you have a voice in union decision-making through democratic voting. Members elect union representatives and leaders, and major decisions—such as whether to strike or accept a contract offer—typically require member votes. Second, you have access to union representation if you face workplace problems. If you are disciplined, fired, or believe your rights are violated, the union provides representation in grievance procedures and can pursue legal action if necessary. This representation is included in your dues and is one of the main values members receive.

Third, union membership means you benefit from the union contract that the union negotiates with your employer. According to data from the Economic Policy Institute, union workers earn approximately 10.2% more than non-union workers in similar jobs. Union contracts typically include protections against arbitrary firing, seniority systems for layoffs and promotions, and grievance procedures. Additionally, union workers are more likely to have employer-provided health insurance and retirement pensions. In 2023, about 94% of union workers had employer-provided health insurance, compared to 67% of non-union workers.

Fourth, union membership often means you attend meetings and participate in union activities. Members might attend monthly union meetings, serve on committees, or participate in campaigns for better conditions. The level of involvement varies—some members attend frequently while others remain less active. However, unions typically expect members to support union positions, such as respecting picket lines during strikes if those occur.

It is important to understand that unionization does not mean workers stop having individual disagreements with their employers or that all workplace problems disappear. Rather, the union contract provides a