National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was created as an independent agency by Congress in 1935 to administer the National Labor Relations Act, often called the Wagner Act. The NLRB works to correct or prevent unfair labor practices committed by either employers or unions. When a union represents 30 percent or more of a group of employees covered by the National Labor Relations Act, the NLRB conducts secret-ballot elections to determine whether employees wish to be represented in collective bargaining.
The president of the United States appoints the five board members and the general counsel, with the consent of the Senate. Each board member serves a five-year term. The general counsel has a four-year term. The NLRB’s main offices are in Washington, D.C. Petitions for elections and charges of unfair labor practices are filed at regional offices.
