§ 2.4.4 Introduction. In 1926, the Railway Labor Act was enacted to avoid interruptions in interstate commerce by resolving railroad labor disputes. It was the culmination of several laws enacted since 1888. The RLA established an orderly procedure for prompt resolution of union-management negotiations, mediation, and arbitration. To enable the parties to a collective bargaining agreement to avoid work stoppages and lockouts and to obtain goals in the RLA, Congress established mandatory procedures that must be followed in settling disputes.8
The RLA principally covers common carriers in interstate commerce. The term "carrier" as used in the law includes any express company, sleeping-car, or carrier by railroad engaged in interstate or foreign commerce. It also includes any company directly or indirectly owned or operated by, or under common control with, any...
