Passed in 1935, the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), or Wagner Act, is a foundational U.S. federal law guaranteeing private-sector employees the right to organize, form unions, bargain collectively, and engage in protected concerted activities. It prohibits employers from unfair labor practices, enforced by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). 

Key Aspects of the NLRA:

• Purpose: To prevent industrial strife that obstructs commerce by encouraging collective bargaining and protecting worker freedom of association.

• Employee Rights (Section 7): Employees have the right to form/join unions, bargain collectively, and engage in "concerted activities" for mutual aid or protection (e.g., discussing wages, protesting working conditions).

• Unfair Labor Practices (ULP): The Act prohibits employers from interfering with, restraining, or coercing employees exercising their rights, dominating unions, or discriminating against employees for union activity.

• Coverage: Covers most private-sector employees, excluding agricultural laborers, independent contractors, and supervisors.

• Enforcement: The independent, five-member NLRB investigates, prosecutes, and adjudicates ULP charges and conducts union representation elections.