Human Resource departments should be on alert to review policies and make sure you are in compliance with the National Labor Relations Act. Companies are now facing a strengthened labor force and a more union-friendly National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). This means you should have everything in your HR department in order. You should also be sure to stay connected with your employees. 

Many companies are preparing for a renewed organizing push following recent actions by the NLRB—including a proposal that would speed up the union election process. While union membership has been decreasing since the 1950s, a more labor-friendly Obama administration and recent battles over collective bargaining rights in Wisconsin have re-energized labor activists. Lawyers believe there will be a renewed push on organizing over the next several months. As a result, this will force companies to be more involved with day to day labor issues.

Lawyers say the NLRB proposal would shorten the time between the filing of a petition to take a vote on joining a union and the actual election. An organizing campaign normally lasts about 40 days, but the new proposal could shorten that time into as little as 10.   

Companies are being encouraged to be watchful of any signs of union activity. However, a spokesman for AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions that represent about 12 million workers says fears for a push are premature at this time.

The Labor Department also issued a proposal to clarify when employers must publicly disclose agreements that are made with labor relations consultants who advise them during an organizing campaign.

As the result of these recent developments, HR experts say now is the time to review your policies and make sure you are in compliance with the National Labor Relations Act. You should also be sure to stay informed on all laws and regulations that could impact your company.

Modern Business Associates is an HR company that focuses on payroll and HR outsourcing.  We routinely work with clients on effective advice for HR departments. As a Professional Payroll and HR outsource organization, our clients rely on us to help them effectively deal with these kinds of topics.