An official strike is a work stoppage organized by union members with the endorsement of the union and in adherence with legal requirements for striking, such as a majority member vote. These strikes afford greater job protection compared to unofficial or unauthorized strikes. Typically, an official strike occurs as a last resort after negotiation tactics fail to produce acceptable terms for workers.
Key Insights
- Legal Compliance: Official strikes comply with the legal processes necessary for declaring and conducting a work stoppage.
- Protected Concerted Activity: Under the National Labor Relations Act, such strikes are protected, but specific determinations are subject to the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) rulings.
- Protection Against Retaliation: Workers engaged in officially sanctioned strikes are afforded legal protection from employer retaliation, including dismissal or punitive actions.
Delving into Official Strikes
In the United States, labor relations are governed by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) under the National Labor Relations Act and supplementary regulations. The NLRB oversees and determines whether a strike meets the criteria of being official. By following prescribed legal steps, a strike is legally recognized and protected, safeguarding participating workers from adverse employer actions.
Typically, official strikes emerge during the collective bargaining process between labor unions and employers, aiming to resolve disputes related to wages, benefits, and working conditions. In some cases involving public sector employees, legislation relevant to their services can also be a contentious issue. When negotiation efforts fail, union members may vote to strike.
Should workers strike without union endorsement, the action is termed a wildcat strike, which does not provide the same legal protections. Wildcats lack formal authorization and, consequently, increased job security risks.
Commonly, striking workers form picket lines to disrupt normal business operations and deter strikebreakers. Alternatively, workers might engage in sit-down strikes by occupying the workplace yet refusing to fulfill their tasks. For public employees, similar strategies might take form around legislative bodies.
Case in Point: Major League Baseball Strike of 1994
A landmark example of an official strike is the 1994 Major League Baseball strike, which resulted in the cancellation of the season’s end and the entire postseason. The 1995 replacement players were not admitted into the union remaining. Unionized players typically receive portions of revenue from licensing their likenesses and names for merchandise like jerseys and baseball cards—a benefit not extended to nonunion replacements.
This historical event underscores the contrast between union-endorsed members and replacement worker treatments, illustrating the impact and significance of official strikes.
Related Terms: Unofficial Strike, Wildcat Strike, Collective Bargaining, Labor Union.
References
- National Labor Relations Board. “National Labor Relations Act”.
- ESPN. “1994 Strike Was a Low Point for Baseball”.
