Industrial Relations Court

Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)

a tribunal established by the State of Kansas for adjudicating industrial disputes which involve the interests or welfare of the public. It consists of three judges, one of whom is appointed annually by the governor. In case of any controversy arising in certain specified industries, such as those concerned with the manufacture of foodstuffs or clothing, the production of fuel, transportation, or the public utilities, all of which are declared to be affected with a public interest, and in case such controversy shall reach the point where continuity or efficiency of service is endangered, the court is empowered to investigate the trouble and issue such orders as are necessary to preserve the public peace and welfare. It may order changes in conditions of labor, fix a minimum wage or a standard of wages, and its orders must be observed by the parties to the dispute, but with the right to have an immediate hearing on appeal to the Supreme Court. In case of suspension of operations in any of the industries covered by the law, the court is authorized to take legal measures for operating and controlling such industry through the emergency. The Industrial Relations Court has been widely discussed throughout the country, being upheld on one hand as the natural solution of the problem of injurious strikes and lockouts, and, on the other hand, being denounced as an interference with the rights of both capital and labor. In the number of cases brought before the court in 1920 and 1921, the complainants included labor unions, corporations, and State officials.