UAW Local 1166 Votes Against Strike Authorization Amid Stellantis Tensions

In a closely watched decision, United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 1166 in Kokomo, Indiana, voted against authorizing a strike against Stellantis. The motion fell short at 61% approval—about four percentage points away from the necessary threshold. This outcome has significant implications for the union and its members as they navigate a complex landscape of corporate commitments and labor negotiations.

Local 1166 President Dave Willis expressed his disappointment at the results, highlighting the ongoing challenges facing workers in the automotive industry. The vote comes when UAW leadership has raised alarms over Stellantis’ alleged failure to uphold promises made during the negotiations that followed the 2023 Stand Up Strike. Central to the union’s grievances is the status of the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois, which Stellantis reportedly plans to keep closed longer than initially expected. Furthermore, union officials assert that the company has opted not to produce the Dodge Durango in the U.S., further complicating job security for local workers.

UAW President Shawn Fain has been vocal about the need for solidarity among union members. As he cast his own vote in Kokomo, he emphasized, “This is about the membership. This is their decision whether we stand up to protect our jobs. This union is done sitting idly by while plants close.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment among workers who are increasingly anxious about the future of their employment amid shifting corporate strategies.

Stellantis has sought to clarify its position in response to these union claims. The company stated that the reopening of the Belvidere plant is merely delayed, not canceled. Stellantis spokeswoman Jodi Tinson explained that the timelines and investments outlined in the 2023 collective bargaining agreement are contingent upon market conditions and consumer demand. “There is indisputable volatility in the market, especially as the industry transitions to an electrified future,” Tinson noted, underscoring the broader challenges that the automotive sector faces.

The tensions have escalated to the legal arena, with Stellantis filing a lawsuit seeking to declare the UAW’s actions illegal. The company also requests the right to hold both the International UAW and local chapters accountable for any potential revenue losses from a strike. Local 1166 is already facing a lawsuit from Stellantis, adding to the strain between the automaker and its workforce.

Looking ahead, UAW Local 685, which represents additional Stellantis employees, is scheduled to vote on strike authorization this Wednesday. As these developments unfold, the future of labor relations at Stellantis remains uncertain, and the outcome of Local 685’s vote could further shape the dynamics of the ongoing negotiations. With the stakes high, union members are closely monitoring how their leadership will respond to the challenges ahead.

Source: Kokomo Tribute