One of the two principal functions of the NLRB is to determine, through what process, the free democratic choice by employees as to whether or not they wish to be represented by a union?

One of the two principal functions of the NLRB is to determine, through what process, the free democratic choice by employees as to whether or not they wish to be represented by a union?

• A. open hearings
• B. majority vote by management
• C. secret-ballot elections
• D. public referenda

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that employee representation is decided through secret-ballot elections conducted under the NLRB. This method protects the privacy of each vote, helping ensure the choice reflects genuine employee preference rather than pressure or public display. When a petition leads to an election in the appropriate bargaining unit, employees cast ballots in private; if the majority of valid ballots favor representation, the union becomes the exclusive bargaining representative for that unit. If the majority does not vote for representation, no union is certified in that unit. Open hearings, a vote by management, or public referenda do not provide the same private, democratic mechanism for employees to express their true preference.

The main idea is that employee representation is decided through secret-ballot elections conducted under the NLRB. This method protects the privacy of each vote, helping ensure the choice reflects genuine employee preference rather than pressure or public display. When a petition leads to an election in the appropriate bargaining unit, employees cast ballots in private; if the majority of valid ballots favor representation, the union becomes the exclusive bargaining representative for that unit. If the majority does not vote for representation, no union is certified in that unit. Open hearings, a vote by management, or public referenda do not provide the same private, democratic mechanism for employees to express their true preference.