The U.S. Senate has confirmed the appointments of three key officials to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), restoring its quorum for the first time in nearly a year. On January 7, 2026, Crystal Carey was sworn in as General Counsel, while Scott Mayer and James Murphy were appointed as Board Members. This development enables the NLRB to address its growing case backlog and resume issuing rulings.
The confirmation of Carey, Mayer, and Murphy was critical in reinstating the necessary three-member quorum, which the Board has lacked since January 2025. The NLRB’s inability to function effectively during this period has hindered its capacity to resolve a backlog of cases that has accumulated over the past eleven months.
Significance of the Confirmations
The confirmation vote was a pivotal step towards restoring the Board’s operations. With a quorum now in place, the NLRB can begin to tackle the backlog of cases that has been a pressing concern for labor relations in the United States. The nominees were part of an en bloc consideration by the U.S. Senate, which was scheduled for a vote in early December 2025.
Crystal Carey’s term as General Counsel will last for four years, while Mayer and Murphy’s terms are set to expire on December 16, 2029, and December 16, 2027, respectively. Mayer, who served as chief corporate labor counsel prior to this appointment, was a last-minute addition to the nominee package, highlighting the urgency in addressing the Board’s operational challenges.
The restoration of the NLRB’s quorum is expected to facilitate more timely decisions on labor disputes and issues affecting workers and employers across the country. Stakeholders in labor relations have expressed optimism that the newly confirmed members will help to streamline processes and reduce delays.
Looking Ahead
As the NLRB begins its work with a full roster, the focus will be on addressing the backlog that has developed during the quorum-less period. The Board is tasked with enforcing labor laws and protecting the rights of workers, making its role critical in maintaining the balance of power between labor and management.
The quick actions of the Senate in confirming these nominees reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that the NLRB can operate efficiently and effectively. With the necessary leadership in place, there is renewed hope for a more responsive labor relations environment in the United States.
