The United Auto Workers union has announced a strike expansion to include one of Ford Motor Company’s major truck plants in Kentucky. The move follows a four-day strike at General Motors’ plants in September which prompted the automaker to reach a tentative agreement with the union.
The strike announcement comes on the heels of a disagreement between UAW and Ford over “major economic issues” concerning wages, benefits, and job security. The plant in question is Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, which produces pickup trucks such as the popular F-150. The facility employs over 4,800 union members who make up the bulk of the plant’s workforce.
The strike began on October 15 and UAW leaders are expecting a successful resolution to the dispute soon. The UAW has already contacted Ford regarding details of both sides’ proposals for an agreement, but both parties have yet to speak publicly about the specifics.
The potential agreement would cover UAW workers employed in 40+ Ford plants across the United States. UAW President Rory Gamble has expressed a desire for a nationwide strike agreement that would help the union to reach an accord with all three of the major Detroit automakers.
The strike has so far been peaceful, with UAW members picketing outside the plant and distributing handbills to educate the public about the strike. This action is being widely supported by the Louisville community and could be the springboard for a larger national strike in the auto industry.