Over 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 Union, employed by Boeing in the St. Louis area, are gearing up for a potential strike on Monday, August 4. This action hinges on the outcome of a vote on a revised contract offer. Earlier this week, Boeing’s initial proposal, which included better wages and benefits, was shot down by the union members. Now, after further discussions, the union is set to vote on a new offer. The union has made it clear that the previous contract didn’t adequately address the needs and sacrifices of its members.
Boeing’s latest offer, presented on July 31, includes some tweaks aimed at benefiting senior union members. Notably, the company decided to maintain the current overtime policies, which they had considered changing in the previous offer. However, a $5,000 ratification bonus is off the table if the new contract isn’t accepted by Sunday. The revised proposal also removes the alternative workweek schedule (AWS) idea, sticking with the existing overtime policies. Additionally, there’s a new annual 50-cent per hour increase for employees at the maximum pay level. For those thinking about retirement, there’s a full $10 pension multiplier increase in Year 1, but only if they retire after January 1, 2026. Other elements like wage increases, vacation, and sick leave remain unchanged from the last offer.
The contract proposed last month included a 20% general wage increase, which could grow to 40% with all pay enhancements. It also offered a faster path to the top of the pay scale—six years quicker for first and third shift employees, and nine years faster for second shift workers. As the union members prepare to vote on August 3, the stakes are high. If the revised offer is rejected, a strike could disrupt Boeing’s defense programs, pushing both sides back to the negotiating table.
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Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
