Railway Labor Act

Railway Labor Act, legislation passed by the U.S. Congress (1926) to settle labor disputes in the railway and later the airline industries. This act was created to avoid strikes by the well-organized railroad unions that might jeopardize the national economy. A 60-day period after a fact-finding board is appointed is required before a strike may commence; employees may reject the board's recommendations and strike after 60 days. The federal National Mediation Board and the National Railroad Adjustment Board administer the Railway Labor Act.

See also: National Mediation Board.