In short, yes unions are still necessary and relevant today. While there have been many general labor laws, such as listed above, to protect employees, there have also been many laws enacted to discourage labor unions and contribute to the downward trend in union membership. Take the LMRA which extends significant provisions to employers and discourages several union activities such as strikes which prove an effective negotiation tactic. Additionally, open shops and Right to Work states strategically lower membership while draining union funds. According to ncsl.org, more than half of the Unites States have adopted Right to Work laws (n.d., 2023). These function by allowing non-union members to join the workforce, without becoming a member/paying dues, however, the union is still required to represent that worker. The standards set by unions play an integral role industry wide and on non-union job markets. What happens when that element is removed? There is no finish line when it comes to our ever-evolving workforce and society. So again, I answer yes, unions are necessary