Starting a Business

National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)

The National Labor Relations Board is an independent federal agency vested with the power to safeguard employees' rights to join together, with or without a union, to improve their wages and working conditions. (http://www.nlrb.gov/rights-we-protect) The agency conducts secret ballot elections, and also acts to prevent and remedy unfair labor practices committed by private sector employers and unions. (http://www.nlrb.gov/what-we-do)

Posting of Employee Rights
As of January 31, 2012, most private-sector employers are required to post a notice of employee rights under the National Labor Relations Act. The free poster is available for download or may be ordered for mail delivery through the agency website or may be ordered by calling 202-273-0064.

Jurisdictional standards
The Board has statutory jurisdiction over private sector employers whose activity in interstate commerce exceeds a minimal level. As a practical matter, the Board’s jurisdiction is very broad and covers the great majority of non-government employers with a workplace in the United States, including non-profits, employee-owned businesses, labor organizations, non-union businesses, and businesses in states with "Right to Work" laws.

Regional offices
The NLRB has 32 regional offices across the country, where information officers are available to answer questions by phone or in person.