Collecting signatures on union authorization cards is the first step a union must take to organize a group of employees. The union needs these cards signed – because, by getting signed cards from at least 30 percent of employees in the bargaining unit they seek to represent, the union can file a petition with the labor board for a representation election. 

Quick facts on Authorization Cards:

• An authorization card is a legal document that the union can turn into the government to show that employees are seeking union representation

• The card authorizes the union to speak and act for you on all matters relating to pay, schedules and other conditions of employment.

• Union authorization cards may come in many forms, such as an index card or a request for your “electronic signature” through text messages, website links or QR codes. Be careful what you “click to accept” or authorize online.

• If you signed a union authorization card, you may still vote “YES” or “NO”!

Whether you do or don’t sign a card, you can still vote - and you can vote YES or NO to the union.

• You do not have to sign a card to be able to vote in the election. If you do not sign, you can vote, and you can vote YES or NO to the union.

• If you did sign a card, regardless of whether you knew what you were signing, you can vote in the election, and you can vote YES or NO to the union.