The National Mediation Board (NMB) is a pivotal institution mandated by the Railway Labor Act (RLA) of 1926. It plays a crucial role in the railway and airline industries by overseeing labor relations and ensuring the smooth resolution of disputes. The NMB is composed of three appointed members and operates under the authority of the RLA to designate bargaining representatives for any bargaining unit within the covered industries.
Functions and Responsibilities
Mediation Services
The primary function of the NMB is to mediate disputes between labor and management. When negotiations between employee representatives (such as unions) and employers reach an impasse, the NMB steps in to facilitate a mutually acceptable agreement.
Designation of Bargaining Representatives
One of the critical roles of the NMB is to designate the bargaining representative for any bargaining unit within the railway or air transport sectors. This process includes:
- Conducting Elections: The NMB supervises representation elections to determine the employees’ choice of a bargaining representative.
- Certifying Representatives: Once elections are conducted, the NMB certifies the results and officially designates the chosen representative.
Handling System Boards of Adjustment
System Boards of Adjustment are established jointly by carriers and employee organizations to resolve minor disputes. The NMB provides guidance and standards for these boards, ensuring fair and effective dispute resolution.
Arbitration Services
In addition to mediation, the NMB provides arbitration services to resolve disputes. This includes both interest arbitration (for contract negotiations) and grievance arbitration (for contract enforcement).
Historical Context
Establishment
The NMB was established under the Railway Labor Act of 1926 with the aim to avoid interruptions in commerce or to operation of any carrier during disputes. Initially focused solely on the railway industry, the scope of the NMB was expanded to include airline workers following amendments to the RLA in 1936.
Comparisons with Related Institutions
National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
While the NMB is specific to the railway and airline industries, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) oversees labor relations in most other private sector industries. The NLRB handles similar functions, such as overseeing union elections and addressing unfair labor practice complaints.
Related Terms
- Bargaining Unit: A group of employees with a clear and identifiable community of interest, represented by a union in dealings with their employer.
- Collective Bargaining: The process through which employers and unions negotiate terms and conditions of employment.
- Railway Labor Act: The act that governs labor relations in the railway and airline industries, aiming to avoid service interruptions due to disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the National Mediation Board?
The NMB mediates disputes, designates bargaining representatives, and provides arbitration services primarily for the railway and airline industries.
How does the NMB choose a bargaining representative?
The NMB conducts and oversees secret-ballot elections among employees to determine their preferred bargaining representative.
Why was the National Mediation Board created?
The NMB was created under the Railway Labor Act to manage labor relations and avoid service disruptions due to labor disputes in critical industries such as railway and air transportation.
References
- Railway Labor Act of 1926, Pub. L. No. 69-257, 44 Stat. 577.
- National Mediation Board official website: NMB.gov
Summary
The National Mediation Board (NMB) serves an essential function in maintaining labor peace within the railway and airline industries. As established by the Railway Labor Act of 1926, it ensures that negotiations between labor and management proceed smoothly and disputes are resolved efficiently through mediation, arbitration, and the certification of bargaining representatives.
