What is a 'collective bargaining agreement' (CBA)?

A collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is fundamentally a written legal contract established between an employer and a union representing the employees. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of employment, including wages, working hours, benefits, workplace safety, and other critical employment matters. The creation of a CBA typically results from negotiations where both the union, acting on behalf of the workers, and the management of the employer engage to arrive at mutually agreed-upon terms. The legal binding nature of a CBA ensures that both parties are obligated to adhere to the agreed-upon conditions, thereby promoting stability and clarity in the workplace.

In contrast to the other choices, a verbal understanding lacks the enforceability and clarity of a written contract. Statements of the union's goals can guide negotiations but do not encapsulate the specific agreements made. Additionally, a non-binding agreement would not hold legal weight, failing to provide the necessary structure and commitments that a legal contract entails. Therefore, the definition of a collective bargaining agreement as a written legal contract is the most accurate and comprehensive explanation of this concept.