The United Auto Workers (UAW) labor union has held off on approving new strikes against the major auto manufacturers in the United States. This decision was made amidst ongoing talks on a new contract between the union and the “Big Three” auto manufacturers Ford Motor Co., General Motors and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
The negotiations between UAW and the automakers have been ongoing for some time. The union has been fighting on behalf of their members for protection against potential job losses stemming from the moving to production outside of the United States. On the top of their demands is a increase to their bid for job security.
As the negotiations continued, UAW President Dennis Williams and representatives of the Big Three have been meeting and attempting to come to an agreement on a new contract. However, despite their best efforts, the negotiations have not ended and as a result, UAW leadership has decided to hold off on authorizing any new strikes. This decision is to give the union and automakers the chance to continue negotiating and work out an agreement that works for everyone involved.
The decision to delay strikes will also help to alleviate potential harm to the taxpayers. Despite the amount of money the auto industry has given to the struggling U.S economy, many working class autoworkers would have been hurt if any of the companies were forced to suspend production over a strike.
Overall, UAW has done the responsible thing by not authorizing any new strikes. This will allow both sides of the bargaining table to continue their discussions and hopefully come to an agreement on a new contract. The union is looking out for its members and the taxpayers at large and it’s a signal that they are dedicated to improving working conditions while ensuring the future prosperity of the auto manufacturing industry.