What is often referred to as a labor agreement?

A labor agreement is commonly defined as a contract between an employer and a labor union that outlines the terms of employment for union members. This agreement typically includes provisions related to wages, working conditions, benefits, and other employment-related matters. The essence of a labor agreement is its binding nature, as it formalizes the agreement reached through negotiations and sets clear expectations for both parties involved.

Contracts are legal documents that create obligations enforceable by law, and a labor agreement falls squarely within this definition. It provides the legal framework for the relationship between the employer and the employees represented by the union, ensuring that both parties adhere to the terms outlined. This contrasts with negotiations, which are the discussions that precede the creation of a labor agreement, and policy or memo, which may refer to guidelines or communications but do not represent the formal and binding nature of the labor agreement itself.