On Thursday, September 24th, after a narrow vote, General Motors (GM) union workers ratified their UAW (United Auto Workers) deal. The agreement concluded a contentious negotiation and strike between GM and the UAW, the largest industrial labor action since the GM bankruptcy of 2009. The outcome of the vote was extremely close, with 56 percent of participating members voting ‘yes’ and 44 percent voting ‘no’. This result indicates that the agreement did not receive universal support among union members.
The new agreement is set to lasting four years and includes wage increases, lump sums, investments in new technology, and an $11,000 ratification bonus. Additionally, the terms of the contract would bring the company and union closer together since GM has committed to keeping products and jobs in the United States.
The deal has faced major opposition from some union members. Many argued that the agreement did not go far enough to protect jobs and provide future wage increases. Others felt that the deal was inadequate in providing healthcare benefits. However, the UAW has stated that they believe the vote is indicative of the majority of workers experiencing the difficult and chaotic labor negotiations and were ultimately willing to accept a deal that was satisfactory enough for union workers.
It appears that GM and the UAW were able to make enough concessions to compromise enough in order to make the agreement acceptable to the majority of those who voted. The ratification of the deal is a milestone in GM’s long labor history and is sure to bring a sigh of relief to those who argued for the agreement’s ratification. Despite the close vote, it appears that GM and the UAW have agreed to a deal that can bring peace and stability both inside and outside the factory for the next four years.
