Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What could be a reason for an unfair labor practice by a union?

1. Excessive and discriminatory dues

2. Union recruitment campaigns

3. Negotiating beneficial contracts

4. Assisting employees with grievances

The correct answer is: Excessive and discriminatory dues

An unfair labor practice by a union can occur when the union imposes excessive and discriminatory dues on its members. This situation arises when the fees required for membership or participation disproportionately burden certain members, potentially distinguishing between members based on arbitrary criteria or financial capability. Such a scenario might infringe upon the rights of workers to fair representation, as unions are expected to act in the interests of all their members without discrimination or undue financial hardship. When dues are unreasonable or unfairly assessed, it can create an environment where only some members can fully benefit from union representation, leading to claims of unfair labor practices. Additionally, options that involve union recruitment campaigns, negotiating beneficial contracts, or assisting employees with grievances typically reflect standard union activities that are generally viewed as beneficial and within the rights of unions to engage in. These activities are central to the purpose of labor unions, which is to advocate for and represent workers' rights and interests. In contrast, imposing excessive fees undermines the union's ethical obligations and can be classified as an unfair labor practice.