Agricultural workers may form unions in some states. While agricultural workers are exempt from the National Labor Relations Act, some state laws provide similar protections. In California, you can call 1-800-449-3699 or visit https://www.alrb.ca.gov/. In New York, you can call 518-457-6410 or visit https://perb.ny.gov.
Most workers have the right to organize with others to improve wages and working conditions and to question your employer's pay practices.
You can file a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board within 6 months of the occurrence. Or, for assistance or questions, please call the NLRB: 1-844-762-6572
You can also learn more about your organizing rights at www.nlrb.gov
You have the right to join with coworkers to improve your working conditions. You have this right regardless of your immigration status, and this includes protection against retaliation.
If you have filed an unfair labor practice charge with the NLRB, and you or your representative tells us that immigration relief is necessary at your worksite to protect workers who are or may be willing to cooperate with the NLRB's investigation or enforcement action, but who may fear retaliation for doing so, you may make a request that the NLRB issue a Statement of Interest, which employees can use in requesting deferred action from the Department of Homeland Security. The NLRB will also consider completing U visa and T visa certifications, in appropriate cases.
For more information, visit the NLRB's Immigrant Worker Rights page.
The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service is available to provide training, mediation, and facilitation to support collective bargaining processes, and prevent, manage, or resolve labor disputes.
Your union may be able to receive training, mediation, and facilitation resources at no cost if you and your coworkers are having trouble reaching an agreement with your employer.
You can read more about your collective bargaining rights here.