UAW Members Will Vote For Strike Authorization At Warren Stamping

Over 1,000 United Auto Workers (UAW) members at Stellantis’ Warren Stamping Plant are preparing for a critical vote on whether to authorize a strike, prompted by unresolved health and safety concerns within the facility.

UAW Local 869 has outlined a plethora of issues concerning working conditions at the Warren Stamping Plant. From ventilation deficiencies to flooding during rainstorms, workers have expressed fears about their safety and well-being. Additionally, reports of insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), sanitation issues, and oil leaks have heightened their anxieties.

“We’re standing up for health and safety at Warren Stamping,” stated UAW Local 869 President Romaine McKinney III. “When it rains, the facility floods because the ceiling is leaking. We have to fight for every single pair of work gloves, while we handle metal and materials to build world-class vehicles for Stellantis. The list goes on, and we’re putting an end to it. Our union grievance procedure gives us the power to stand up for safety on the job, and we intend to take action if necessary.”

“Stellantis is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees,” stated Stellantis in an official response. “The company is in discussions with UAW Local 869 to address open health and safety grievances at the Warren (Michigan) Stamping Plant and aims to resolve this matter without a work stoppage.”

This isn’t the first time Stellantis has faced labor unrest over safety concerns. In 2022, a brief strike at a casting plant in Kokomo, Indiana, underscored the urgency of addressing such issues promptly.

It’s worth noting that Local 869 also voted on April 2 to authorize a strike over local contract issues.

The Warren Stamping Plant plays a crucial role in Stellantis’ production chain, supplying key components to several plants across the North American region. This includes stampings and assemblies including hoods, roofs, liftgates, side apertures, fenders and floor pans for vehicles like the Dodge Durango, Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Grand Caravan, Chrysler Voyager, Ram 1500, Ram 1500 Classic, and Ram Heavy Duty.

Union members will cast their votes on Monday, May 6th to determine whether UAW members at the Warren Stamping Plant will proceed with strike action. In an already challenging market, the decision holds significant implications for both sides, underscoring the delicate balance between labor rights and corporate interests.