What happens when there is an impasse in collective bargaining?

• A. The board imposes terms
• B. A mediator steps in and helps the parties work out their own solutions
• C. Negotiations end with a strike
• D. The parties file a lawsuit

Answer: (B)

When bargaining stalls, a mediator is brought in to move negotiations forward. A mediator’s role is to facilitate conversation, help both sides express underlying interests, and explore options that might satisfy both parties, without imposing a decision. This keeps control with the parties themselves and often reduces hostility, making it possible to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

This approach differs from a board or judge stepping in to impose terms, which would be arbitration or a formal imposed settlement—not the mediator’s job. It also differs from a strike, which is typically a consequence some parties might choose if negotiations fail, rather than a structured step to resolve the impasse. Filing a lawsuit is not the standard mechanism for resolving bargaining deadlocks.

So, the key idea is that mediation helps the parties work out their own solutions, breaking the impasse through facilitated dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.