Final answer:
Featherbedding is considered an unfair labor practice because it involves a union requiring an employer to pay for services not performed by employees. This practice is typically seen as unjust and not allowed under labor laws governing union and employer agreements. The correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question 'featherbedding refers to an unfair labor practice in which a union requires an employer to pay an employee for services not performed?' involves an understanding of labor union practices and employment law. Featherbedding is indeed regarded as an unfair labor practice when a union forces an employer to pay workers for work that is not actually done. This can occur when unions have strong leverage over employers and use that power to secure pay for jobs that may be redundant or unnecessary.
A labor union is an organization that aims to represent workers in negotiations over compensation and work conditions. Unions have historically helped to improve wages and working conditions, and often possess collective bargaining rights to secure better terms for their members. The impact of unions on employment practices is complex, and while they can foster more equitable and safe workplaces, they sometimes might engage in practices such as featherbedding, which can be contentious.
However, the context of the question suggests it is addressing an aspect of labor law, and therefore, featherbedding as described would be an unfair practice and not permissible under labor laws that govern union actions and employer-union relations.