Small Business Glossary and Definitions

Fair Representation is a duty required of labor unions to treat all employees fairly and equally without discrimination when dealing with an employer, regardless of the union status of the employee. Labor unions must apply the same support and benefits to all employees in negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, grievance procedures, and the enforcement of union security agreements.

The duty of fair representation does not apply to internal union affairs, such as union disciplinary actions against union members for violating union rules and procedures.