Pay Raises During Elections Raise Problems

Abstract

Employers cannot give pay raises to employees as an incentive to vote against a union. Indeed, even promising to raise pay can be deemed an unfair labor practice that interferes with Section 7 rights. Engaging in such improper practices can lead to unfair labor practice liability, which, in turn, can earn a union valuable campaign points. Moreover, overstepping into improper victory can potentially pull defeat from the jaws of victory, as recently demonstrated by a decision from the NLRB.