What is a union security clause? Why is it important?
A union security clause is an important part of a contract. It means that all members of a workgroup who are represented by a particular union must either become dues-paying members of that union, or pay a fair share toward the cost of union representation and services as a condition of employment. Without this clause, an employer could try to replace union members with non-union employees, weakening the union. In return for the right to negotiate for all employees, the union is required by law to represent all employees. All negotiated improvements will apply to all employees. Everyone will benefit, for example, from a pay raise, so it is only fair to those who are paying dues that all other employees pay their fair share to support the unions efforts. Because we live in a democracy where the majority rules, it makes sense that when the majority votes for the union in a secret ballot election, everyone should join. Keep in mind that a union security clause is not automatically contain
