Which federal agency enforces federal labor law in the United States?

• A. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• B. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
• C. Department of Labor
• D. Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Answer: (B)

Federal labor law is mainly about how employees can organize and bargain with employers, and who enforces those rights. The National Labor Relations Board is the agency that enforces this portion of federal labor law, having the power to investigate unfair labor practices by employers or unions and to conduct representation elections. It also issues remedies when violations are found and oversees certifications of union representation. This makes it the central authority for labor relations under federal law.

Other agencies handle related but different areas. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces employment civil rights laws, such as discrimination protections. The Department of Labor administers a broad range of programs and statutes—like wage and hour rules, unemployment insurance, and job training—but the core labor-relations framework is specifically enforced by the NLRB. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration focuses on workplace safety standards.