What legislation established the right for workers to organize and join unions?

The National Labor Relations Act, often referred to as the Wagner Act, was enacted in 1935 and is pivotal in labor law as it explicitly established the rights of workers to organize labor unions and engage in collective bargaining. This legislation was designed to protect the interests of employees, ensuring that they had the legal backing to form unions, join together for collective action, and negotiate with their employers over wages, working conditions, and other employment-related issues.

The act also led to the establishment of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which oversees the enforcement of labor relations and adjudicates disputes between unions and employers. This was a significant step in labor relations, as it provided a framework through which employees could advocate for their rights and interests in the workplace without fear of retaliation. In contrast, other legislation mentioned, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Employment Retirement Income Security Act, and the Family and Medical Leave Act, address various aspects of labor rights and benefits but do not specifically establish or enforce the rights to organize and join unions.