In the context of union membership, what are ‘dues’?

In the context of union membership, 'dues' refer to the regular fees that members are required to pay to support the activities and operations of the union. These dues are essential for maintaining the functionality of the union, which includes negotiating collective bargaining agreements, offering member services, supporting various labor initiatives, and ensuring that the union can operate effectively.

Union dues are typically collected on a recurring basis, such as monthly or annually, and are a fundamental aspect of union solidarity and strength. Members contribute these dues to ensure that their rights are represented and that the union has the necessary funds to advocate on their behalf. This financial support is crucial for the union's ability to negotiate better wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary function and nature of dues in a union context. One-time fees do not reflect the ongoing financial commitment required from members, and special event payments or penalties for infractions do not encompass the regular and mandatory nature of dues. Thus, the designation of dues as regular fees to support union activities and operations is the correct understanding in this context.