what does it mean to be a UNION member but not be represented by the union? how is that different....?

Question

there are numbers of people that are union memembers...and there are numbers of people that are represented by unions.. what is the difference?

Answer 1

A union represents all people within a "bargaining unit." The bargaining unit is decided by the union and can be challenged in court by an employer. It doesn't matter whether you pay dues or not if you are covered by an established bargaining unit--the union must represent you as it would any dues-paying member. In reality, of course, union officials may not want to spend a lot of $ on a case representing someone who chose not to be a member and who does not want to be in the union, but legally, that should not matter.

A member must be represented by the union. Whether you pay dues or not, the union does not have unlimited funds, so they often must choose which cases to pursue and which not to. When they don't pursue a case, they sometimes end up being sued by the member who wanted the union to sue on his/her behalf.

Answer 2

There are several unions, however you need a job or apprenticeship to join a union. The individual company will set their employment standards IE, if they hire convicted felons. A union is an organization within the workplace that protects workers rights, it is not a club that you can just join.

Answer 3

Some states require that even though you do not belong to a union, if their is one in your shop that represents the same trade as you , they have to represent you..You dont get to enjoy any of the benefits, and you may not get a raise if they do. but if you have a greiveance they have to support you.

Answer 4

Unions were at once the back-bone of the working man. They have long been since relegated to compromising with management. Sadly, it's management's way or no way. Welcome to America!!!