A unilateral change to a mandatory bargaining topic before the outcome is generally an unfair labour practice, although workers may view the change as beneficial. According to the Supreme Court, unilateral amendments minimize the influence of collective bargaining by giving workers the impression that a union is not necessary to reach an agreement with the employer. For example, in NLRB v. Katz, 369 U.S. 736, 82 P. Ct. 1107, 8 L Ed. 2d 230 (1962), the employer unilaterally changed its sick leave policy and increased its rates of pay without first negotiating with the union. The Court found that the unilateral change of the employer undermined the union`s bargaining ability on sick leave, wages and other conditions of employment. The compensation system is an integral part of the collective agreement as it defines minimum wages. The United States recognizes collective agreements[9] [10] [11] In Sweden, about 90% of employees are subject to collective agreements and 83% in the private sector (2017). [5] [6] Collective agreements generally contain minimum wage provisions. Sweden does not have legislation on minimum wages or legislation extending collective agreements to disorganised employers.

Unseated employers can sign replacement agreements directly with unions, but many do not. The Swedish model of self-regulation applies only to jobs and workers covered by collective agreements. [7] Although the collective agreement itself is not applicable, many of the negotiated terms relate to wages, conditions, leave, pensions, etc. These conditions are included in a worker`s employment contract (whether the worker is unionized or not); and the employment contract is of course applicable. If the new conditions are not acceptable to individuals, they may be contrary to their employer; but if the majority of workers have agreed, the company will be able to dismiss the complainants, usually unpunished. More detailed information about the collective agreement can be obtained from Shop Steward or pro employee council. In the event of a conflict, Pro members can get assistance from the Shop Steward and the Union staff council.