When a majority of employees fill out authorization cards saying they want the union to represent them, an employer can agree to give workers’ recognition of their union.

If an employer does not agree, workers can hold a union election. Thirty percent of workers must fill out authorization cards before an election can be scheduled. 

The union will then file a request with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to conduct an election. Typically elections are held 5 to 8 weeks after the NLRB has been contacted. No one will know how you voted, but they will know how many employees voted for the union.

After workers vote for union representation, a bargaining committee of your co-workers is formed. The bargaining committee assists union negotiators in solving major concerns to you and your co-workers.

When the bargaining committee negotiates a contract, it is presented to the workers for a final vote. If a majority of workers vote to accept a contract it will go into effect, but rejecting a contract does not mean workers will go on strike. Local 227 takes strikes seriously, and will not recommend workers go on strike without good reason. In order to strike, a special meeting is called and two-thirds of the members present must vote to strike.