What Is Featherbedding? The term featherbedding refers to a labor union practice that requires employers to change their workforce to live up to union regulations. When unions engage in featherbedding, companies are generally forced to increase their labor costs in order to meet these demands.

Where did term featherbedding come from?

The term "featherbedding" originally referred to any person who is pampered, coddled, or excessively rewarded. The term originated in the use of feathers to fill mattresses in beds, providing for more comfort.

What does the term feather bedding mean?

: the requiring of an employer usually under a union rule or safety statute to hire more employees than are needed or to limit production.