The Unionization Process: Washington

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Bruce Cross, Perkins Coie LLP

Summary

• Private sector labor union organizing and labor relations are generally governed by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA); where the NLRA has no jurisdiction, state law applies. See Right to Organize and Bargain Collectively.
• Washington law prohibits employers from requiring employees to attend mandatory meetings about unionization. See Captive Audience Meetings and Communications.
• Washington is not a "right to work" state. See Right to Work.
• Seattle has requirements pertaining to the unionization process. See Local Requirements.