Taft-Hartley Act

The Taft-Hartley Act, enacted in 1947, is a U.S. federal law that regulates labor unions and their activities. It was designed to balance the power between unions and employers, ensuring that workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining are protected while also limiting certain union practices deemed harmful. Key provisions include prohibiting secondary boycotts and closed shops, as well as allowing states to pass "right-to-work" laws, which prevent mandatory union membership. The act was controversial, with supporters arguing it protects economic freedom and critics claiming it undermines workers' rights.