Which federal agency oversees the collective bargaining process in the federal sector?

The Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) is the agency responsible for overseeing the collective bargaining process in the federal sector. Established by the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, the FLRA administers the labor-management relations program for federal employees, ensuring that both labor unions and federal agencies comply with the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute.

The FLRA has the authority to adjudicate disputes involving unfair labor practices and to oversee representation elections. It plays a critical role in promoting stable labor relations within the federal government, fostering effective communication between federal employees and their employers, and ensuring the rights of federal employees to organize and engage in collective bargaining.

In contrast, while other agencies like the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) focus on the private sector and the FTC and OSHA have distinct roles unrelated to labor relations, the FLRA’s specific mandate is essential for the structure and functioning of labor relations within federal workplaces.