The LMRDA (also known as the Landrum-Griffin Act) awards certain rights to union members and protects their interests by promoting procedures within labor organization. The LMRDA does not apply to unions who only represent state and local government employees. The office of Labor Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many of the LMRDA provisions. The Union Members Bill of Rights and Election Rights are discussed below. For more information on the full act please go to http://www.dol.gov/compliance/laws/comp-lmrda.htm 

Bill of Rights

This sets forth the basic rights guaranteed to union members. In short, Union members have:
o Equal Rights to participate in Union Activities (ie membership meetings, vote in elections or referendums, etc)
o Freedom of Speech and Assembly
o A voice in setting rates of dues, fees, and assessments
o Protection of the right to sue
o Safeguards against improper discipline

If a Collective Bargaining Agreement directly affects their rights, both Union and nonunion employers have the right to receive or inspect copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements.

Elections:

(1) Union Members In Good Standing have the right to:
§ Nominate Candidates for Office
§ Run for Office
§ Cast a Secret Ballot
§ Protest the Conduct of an Election

(2) Officer Elections  Union Must:
§ Hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years
§ Conduct regular elections in accordance with their consultation and bylaws and preserve all records for one year
§ Mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election
§ Comply with a candidates request to distribute campaign material
§ Not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may use employer funds or resources)
§ Permit candidates to have election observers
§ Allow candidates to inspect the union s membership list once within 30 days prior to election

For more information on the LMRDA and its provisions, please go to their website at http://www.dol.gov/compliance/laws/comp-lmrda.htm