The members of the Auto Workers’ Union have reached a tentative agreement in their negotiations with Stellantis, the world’s fourth largest automaker. The agreement is expected to end the two-month strike against the company.
The strike began on December 6, 2020 after the Auto Workers’ Union members voiced a disagreement with the company’s proposed wages and benefits. The union had argued that the proposed wages did not match the work the members are doing for the company. After negotiations continued, the tentative agreement was reached and will be reviewed by the union members.
If accepted, the agreement will increase wages and provide better benefits to the members of the union. Additionally, the agreement will ensure that the workers are paid time and a half for overtime hours and provide additional job security. The agreement also includes a $4,000 ratification bonus for union members and an increase in the company’s pension contributions.
This tentative agreement has been seen as a victory for the union. In a statement, United Auto Workers president Rory Gamble said, “My heart is full today as I share that our union members have reached a tentative agreement with Stellantis that will keep UAW-represented jobs in America and prevent the outsourcing of our members’ jobs to other countries.”
In a statement, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said, “I am pleased to announce that we have reached a tentative agreement that is fair to all parties. Our proposed agreement invests in our employees and their families while ensuring the competitive future of Stellantis in the United States. This agreement sets the stage for a positive and constructive partnership for the future of our company, our union and our communities.”
The Auto Workers’ Union members will vote to accept or reject the tentative agreement in the coming days. If accepted, the agreement will end the two-month strike and bring the union and the company closer together.
Regardless of the outcome, the union leaders have noted that the proposed agreement is a testament to the hard work and solidarity of the members of the Auto Workers’ Union. With the tentative agreement announced, it appears that the strike is coming to an end.