The Railway Labor Act of 1926 protects the right of workers to form or join a union (of their own choosing), provides government mediation of collective bargaining disputes, and provides a mechanism for settling workplace disputes so that strikes can be avoided.

Railway Labor Act

A U.S. federal law enacted in 1926 to prevent interruptions to interstate commerce by providing for the settlement of disputes between railroads and their workers.

Government Mediation

The intervention by government agencies or officials to facilitate the resolution of a dispute between parties, typically in labor disputes.

Collective Bargaining

The negotiation process involving management and worker unions aiming to establish agreements on salary scales, conditions of employment, benefits, and other components of labor compensation and rights.