What was the primary purpose of the Taft-Hartley Act?

The primary purpose of the Taft-Hartley Act, enacted in 1947, was to limit the powers of labor unions and to enable the government to step in during strikes that could potentially harm national health or safety. This act introduced several restrictions on union activities, such as prohibiting secondary boycotts, jurisdictional strikes, and closed shops, thereby curtailing the influence of unions in the workplace. Additionally, the act required union leaders to sign affidavits affirming that they were not members of the Communist Party, reflecting the broader context of dealing with perceived threats during the Cold War era.

The goal of the legislation was to balance the power dynamics between labor unions and employers, ensuring that while workers still had rights, the government could intervene to protect the economic stability of the nation. Therefore, the focus on limiting union powers and increasing governmental oversight during disputes underscores the act’s intention to prevent disruptions that could affect the economy.