Unionizing 101

This information provided is not legal advice, it is simply meant to serve as a starting point of information for those who want to know what it takes to Unionize their workplace. You can access the full extent of NLRB Election Law on their website.

Internal Organizing

  • Internal Organizing is simply talking to coworkers who you trust about the possibility of forming a Union.

  • Internal Organizing is necessary but needs to be discreet and cautious. It should not be done on the clock.

  • Exercise great caution when communicating digitally (the wrong person WILL screenshot!)

  • Before you've gone public with the fact that you'll have a union election, your employer may be able to get away with more union busting tactics. That's why it's important to protect yourself and only talk to coworkers you trust!

50% + 1 Rule

  • While employers can voluntarily recognize a Union, it’s very rare. Most times, you will need to have a Union election in order to win collective bargaining rights. To get an election, you need at least 30% of employees to sign a Union Card or petition to show interest in forming a Union.

  • You need at least 50% + 1 Person (majority) to Vote Yes for a Union in order to win your Union election.

  • It's a good rule of thumb to have at least 70% of workers on board before officially starting the process. Why 70%? Because people change their mind, especially when the potential intimidation and union busting tactics of an employer begin once you've announced you're having a union election.

  • The 50% + 1 rule is from the NLRB in order to legally win a Union election.

  • You can view all rules and regulations on the NLRB’s website here. SEIU Local 513 will always follow the proper and current protocol outlined by the NLRB.

Next Steps

  1. Employees who want to Unionize meet with SEIU to discuss next steps.

  2. Employees who want to unionize sign a union membership card and provide it to SEIU.

  3. Once there are at least 30% of cards signed, SEIU submits a petition for a Union election to the NLRB.

  4. If a mail-in/virtual election is being conducted, the NLRB will mail out ballots to every eligible employee in the bargaining unit.

  5. All employees in the bargaining unit mail their completed ballots back to the NLRB.

  6. The NLRB counts the votes with the Employer and the Union present (typically via Zoom.)

  7. Hopefully - you win your election and now have a Union!

  • When you have a union contract in place. They will likely be a deduction that your employer processes directly from your paycheck.

  • 1.5% of your gross paycheck, or $1.50 per $100 that you earn.

  • It typically will take at least 6 months - 1 year after winning your election to start the negotiation process. It could be much faster if your employer is willing to play fair and give your negotiations proper attention!

  • Because helping form a union ensures that the next generation of workers at your employer can have a better quality of life. If the working conditions there right now are bad enough that you're planning on leaving, they definitely aren't going to get better without your help!

  • Typically any employee that cannot hire or fire at your employer.

  • As Kansas is currently a "Right-to-work" state, no one in the bargaining unit is required to join their union. Just remember that if you're not a Member, you will likely not have the power to vote on your contract nor have the ability to be at the negotiating table.

  • If your line of work is not in SEIU's purview, we will absolutely let you know and direct you to whichever Union is better suited to represent you.

    We're an open book, so if you've got the hard questions, we're happy to answer them!

  • You definitely can self-organize!

    Per the US Department of Labor: A labor union is a group of two or more employees who join together to advance common interests such as wages, benefits, schedules and other employment terms and conditions.

    However, the reason most employees choose to work with a Labor Union like SEIU is because SEIU 513:

    • Has years of experience in Organizing and Contract Negotiations, better equipping you to win your union election and get a strong contract.

    • Will file all your paperwork with the NLRB for your election and coordinate any necessary components of the election process.

    • Would be responsible for maintaining financial records, meeting minutes and any other documentation that the government may request or audit a Union for.

    • Will cover the costs of relevant legal expenses should the need arise for advice from a lawyer or even a lawsuit.

    • Has experience in working with the Media to help you garner goodwill in your community about your Union Election campaign.

    • Knows when, how and why to file a grievance with your employer.

    • Has employees dedicated to solving your problems so you can focus on your work and personal life.

    • Makes the most out of your Union dues and works for you!