Which of the following best describes a major role of labor unions in the U.S. economy?

Labor unions play a crucial role in advocating for the rights and welfare of workers within the U.S. economy, chiefly by improving wages and working conditions. Historically, unions have been instrumental in negotiating contracts that secure benefits for their members, including higher pay, safer working environments, reasonable working hours, and other essential workplace protections. This advocacy stems from the collective bargaining power that unions hold, empowering workers to negotiate with employers as a unified group rather than as individuals, which drastically levels the playing field and allows workers to push for better employment conditions.

Moreover, the focus of labor unions has always been broad, addressing various aspects of employment rather than narrowing their efforts to specific areas like health benefits alone. While health benefits are important and are often part of union negotiations, they are just one aspect of a comprehensive approach to improving overall worker conditions. The primary mission of labor unions has consistently been centered around enhancing the livelihood and security of workers in diverse sectors of the economy.