What type of agency is the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)?

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is classified as an independent agency of the government, which means it operates separately from the executive departments of the federal government and has a specific mandate. Established to protect the rights of employees and employers, the NLRB plays a crucial role in overseeing labor relations in the United States. Its functions include conducting elections for labor union representation and investigating unfair labor practices.

Independent agencies like the NLRB have unique authority granted by Congress and are designed to be free from direct political influence, allowing them to make decisions based on legal and regulatory matters specific to labor relations. This independence is essential for maintaining a fair and balanced approach to labor disputes and rights.

The other options do not align with the NLRB's structure or functions: it is not a regulatory agency for national security, nor is it a private non-profit organization or a state-level enforcement agency. These distinctions clarify the NLRB's role and confirm its classification as an independent governmental entity.