For The Players
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Every player deserves to understand the protections they've earned. Here's what your union — and federal law — secures for you.
Your Right to Organize
PROTECTED BY FEDERAL LAW
Your right to belong to this union is not a privilege granted by any team or league — it is a right protected by federal law. Under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935, also known as the Wagner Act, private-sector workers have the legally protected right to organize, form and join labor unions, and act together for their mutual aid and protection.
Section 7 of the NLRA guarantees every player the right to:
- Self-organize and build collective strength
- Form, join, or assist a labor organization like the AFLPU
- Bargain collectively through representatives of your own choosing
- Engage in concerted activity for mutual aid and protection
These rights are enforced by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), an independent federal agency. If an employer interferes with your right to organize, that is an unfair labor practice under the law — and the union stands ready to act.
Weingarten Rights
YOUR RIGHT TO REPRESENTATION
Established by the U.S. Supreme Court in NLRB v. J. Weingarten, Inc. (1975) and grounded in Section 7 of the NLRA, Weingarten Rights give you the right to have a union representative present during any investigatory interview that you reasonably believe could lead to discipline.
These rights are not automatic — you must request representation. If you are called into a meeting that could affect your standing, you have the right to invoke them.
The Weingarten Statement — say this
“If this discussion could in any way lead to my being disciplined or terminated, or affect my personal working conditions, I respectfully request that my union representative be present. Without representation, I respectfully choose not to answer any questions.”
Know it. Memorize it. If you ever need to use it, contact the union immediately at compliance@aflpu.org or 1-800-585-0248.
What Your Union Secures
YOUR CORE PROTECTIONS
The Collective Bargaining Agreement
The CBA is the foundation of your rights as a player. It governs compensation, working conditions, health benefits, and more. The 2018 agreement nearly doubled player pay and expanded health insurance. Members can access the full CBA in the document library.
Contract Protections
Your contract is a binding agreement — and the union is here to make sure it's honored. We help members understand their contract terms and step in when a team falls short of its obligations.
The Grievance Process
If you experience a contract violation, unsafe conditions, or unpaid wages, you have the right to file a grievance. The AFLPU advocates on your behalf through every step of the process.
Legal Consultation & Referrals
Members have access to legal consultation and a referral network. When you need professional guidance, the union connects you with the right people.
Governed by Our Constitution
The AFLPU operates as a democratic, parliamentary governing body. Our Constitution defines how we elect leaders, make decisions, and protect every member's voice.
ACCESS THE FULL CBA & FORMS
The Collective Bargaining Agreement, Constitution, and union forms are available to all members in the document library.
View Member Documents