What federal law is the main body of labor law in the United States?

• A. National Labor Relations Act (NLRA)
• B. Fair Labor Standards Act
• C. Sherman Antitrust Act
• D. Occupational Safety and Health Act

Answer: (A)

The foundational statute that creates the framework for labor relations in the United States, including the right of employees to organize and bargain collectively and the prohibition of unfair labor practices by employers and labor organizations, is the National Labor Relations Act. This Act, often called the Wagner Act, also established the National Labor Relations Board to oversee elections for union representation and to enforce rights and duties under the law. Other major statutes play important roles in related areas but address different aspects: the Fair Labor Standards Act sets minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor rules; the Occupational Safety and Health Act deals with workplace safety and health standards; and the Sherman Antitrust Act targets anticompetitive practices in the economy. Therefore, the National Labor Relations Act is the central body that governs labor relations.