labor controversy
Definition
A labor controversy is any dispute between a business and its workers, or between competing groups of workers, over things like wages, working hours, job conditions, or union membership. Courts and laws use this broad term to cover everything from a simple wage disagreement to a full-scale strike.
Example
If your employees walk off the job demanding higher pay and you refuse to negotiate, that situation qualifies as a labor controversy and triggers specific federal laws about what you can and cannot do in response.
Watch Out
Once a labor controversy officially exists, federal law places strict limits on your actions as an employer, so getting an employment attorney involved early can protect you from accidentally doing something illegal.
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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.