Business & Tech
Union Of Electric Boat Workers Authorizes Strike In 'Major Escalation'
The union held a rally and a vote this week as it claims the company isn't providing a fair deal for workers.
GROTON, CT — Union members have voted to authorize a strike in a "major escalation in the ongoing labor dispute at General Dynamics Electric Boat," according to a statement from the United Automobile Workers (UAW).
The union represents the highly skilled workforce that designs the U.S. Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet. The rally drew more than 1,000 workers, with a vote authorizing a strike.
"The decision highlights growing frustration with the defense contractor, which has reported massive profits even as the workers behind a cornerstone of the nation’s nuclear deterrence fight for a contract that delivers on their core priorities — including fair pay, retirement security for all, and dignity on the job," the statement from the union reads.
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UAW members are fighting to win cost-of-living adjustments so their pay keeps up with inflation, affordable healthcare, and the restoration of pensions, which workers lost in 2010.
The union claims that Electric Boat has generated $13 billion in profits over the last three years but is pushing health insurance increases between 52% to 161%.
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UAW President Shawn Fain said, “These workers aren’t just drafting blueprints — they’re designing the backbone of our national defense. This isn’t just any job — it’s mission-critical work, funded by the American taxpayer. And yet, while General Dynamics pockets billions in government contracts, the very people doing this essential work are being left behind. That’s not just unfair — it’s outrageous. The company has a choice. They can get back to the table and get serious about our demands. Or they can keep messing around. The choice is theirs. And the clock is ticking.”
Electric Boat officials previously said they made their "best and final offer" that included "historic wage growth" and a "continuation of our premium benefits package," according to The Day of New London.
The news comes as Electric Boat has consistently announced it will hire thousands of workers each year.
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