Final answer:
Mandatory bargaining subjects must be negotiated during labor contract negotiations when raised by one party, with no direct mandate for federal mediators to resolve disputes or approve agreements, although they may assist. The National Labor Relations Board oversees and resolves disputes in the bargaining process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mandatory bargaining subjects are a critical aspect of labor contract negotiations. These include topics that legally must be negotiated between employers and labor unions. Mandatory subjects cover wages, hours of labor, and other terms and conditions of employment. During the negotiation process, if one party raises an issue that falls under the mandatory bargaining subjects, both parties are obliged to negotiate in good faith until an agreement is reached. The process is overseen by agencies such as the National Labor Relations Board, which also decides disputes that may arise.
Despite federal mandates imposing certain demands, in the context of collective bargaining, no such federal mandate directly dictates that a federal mediator will resolve the differences or must approve the agreement if parties cannot reach an understanding on mandatory bargaining subjects. However, a federal mediator may assist in the negotiation process in case of an impasse.
The presence of a labor union significantly impacts the dynamics of these negotiations, tipping the balance of power somewhat more equitably as compared to negotiations without union representation. Furthermore, the establishment of labor rights through various laws has been reinforced by federal mandates under the justification of constitutional amendments like the 14th Amendment, which supports equal protection and civil rights.