Final Answer:
a. Closed shops are authorized by some state laws.
b. Unions can legally strike to enforce subcontractor clauses.
c. The Teamsters union is the largest AFL-CIO member.
Step-by-step explanation:
Closed shops, as mentioned in part (a), refer to a union security arrangement authorized by certain state laws. In a closed shop, employees must be members of the union to secure employment at a particular workplace. This practice gives unions more control and ensures a more unified representation of workers. State laws vary on this matter, and the authorization of closed shops reflects the intricate relationship between labor laws and union practices.
Part (b) underscores the legal leverage of unions in striking to enforce subcontractor clauses. This means that if a subcontractor is not meeting the terms specified in a contract, the union has the legal right to initiate a strike, a powerful tool in negotiations. This demonstrates the legal mechanisms in place to safeguard the interests of workers and maintain contractual agreements within the construction industry. Lastly, part (c) states a factual association, affirming that the Teamsters union holds the largest membership within the AFL-CIO.
This brief statement underscores the Teamsters' significance and prominence within the larger umbrella of the AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions in the United States. In summary, these statements provide insights into the legal frameworks surrounding closed shops, the power dynamics in enforcing subcontractor clauses through strikes, and the notable position of the Teamsters within the AFL-CIO.