§411 Bill of Rights; Constitution and Bylaws of Labor Organizations

Summary

Gives every member of a labor organization equal rights to nominate candidates, vote in elections or referendums, attend meetings, and take part in discussions and votes, as long as the group's reasonable rules in its constitution and bylaws are followed. Members may meet and speak freely, including about candidates or business at meetings, subject to fair rules for meeting conduct. The organization may still make reasonable rules about member responsibilities and stopping behavior that would interfere with its legal or contract duties. Except for federations of national or international labor organizations, dues and initiation fees in effect on September 14, 1959 cannot be raised and no extra assessments can be charged unless approved: for local unions by a majority of members in good standing voting by secret ballot at a meeting after reasonable notice or by secret-ballot referendum; for other unions (not locals or federations) by a majority of delegates at a regular or special convention with at least thirty days' written notice, or by secret-ballot referendum of members, or by a majority of the executive board if the constitution allows (board action lasts only until the next regular convention). Members may sue, appear as witnesses, or contact legislators, but they may be required to use internal hearing steps first, which cannot delay a legal or administrative action by more than a four-month lapse. Employers or employer groups may not finance or encourage such actions except when they are a party. No member may be fined, suspended, expelled, or disciplined (except for not paying dues) unless given written specific charges, a reasonable time to prepare a defense, and a full and fair hearing. Any union rule that conflicts with these rights has no force or effect.