What is a Secondary Boycott? Legal Definition and Implications
Definition & meaning
A secondary boycott occurs when a labor union encourages others to refrain from doing business with a neutral third party. This is done to exert pressure on a company involved in a labor dispute, such as a strike. Essentially, it involves refusing to purchase products or services from a company that is associated with another company facing labor issues. Secondary boycotts are considered unfair labor practices and are illegal under federal law.
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Secondary boycotts are primarily relevant in labor law, particularly in the context of union activities and collective bargaining. They are often addressed in disputes involving union representation and employee rights. Users may encounter forms related to labor disputes or union activities, which can be managed using templates available from US Legal Forms.
Key Legal Elements
Real-World Examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A union representing workers at Company A goes on strike. In response, the union encourages consumers to boycott Company B, which supplies materials to Company A. This action aims to pressure Company A to negotiate with the striking workers.
Example 2: (hypothetical example) A union representing delivery drivers urges other delivery services to stop working with a grocery store chain that is facing a strike. The goal is to apply pressure on the grocery store to settle the labor dispute.
Relevant Laws & Statutes
The Taft-Hartley Act and the Landrum-Griffin Act are two significant federal laws that address secondary boycotts. These laws prohibit unions from engaging in secondary boycotts as a means of exerting pressure on employers involved in labor disputes.
State-by-State Differences
State
Specific Provisions
California
Has specific regulations regarding union activities and boycotts.
New York
Enforces strict rules on secondary boycotts, aligning with federal laws.
Texas
Generally follows federal guidelines but has additional state-level labor regulations.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with Related Terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Primary Boycott
A direct boycott against a company involved in a labor dispute.
Targets the primary employer rather than a neutral third party.
Sympathy Strike
A strike by workers in support of another group of workers who are on strike.
Involves direct action by workers rather than a boycott of a third party.
Common Misunderstandings
What to Do If This Term Applies to You
If you believe you are involved in a situation related to a secondary boycott, consider the following steps:
Review the specific circumstances of the labor dispute.
Consult legal resources or templates available through US Legal Forms to understand your rights.
If the situation is complex, seek advice from a legal professional experienced in labor law.
Quick Facts
Legal Status: Illegal under federal law.
Key Laws: Taft-Hartley Act, Landrum-Griffin Act.
Typical Consequences: Legal penalties for unions engaging in secondary boycotts.
Key Takeaways
FAQs
A secondary boycott is an organized effort by a union to pressure a third party to stop doing business with a company involved in a labor dispute.
No, secondary boycotts are illegal under federal law, specifically the Taft-Hartley Act.
Consult legal resources or a professional for guidance on how to address the situation.
