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Oh (John) Deere, Over 10,000 Unionized Workers Go On Strike

 

Late last week, it was announced that over 10,000 unionized John Deere workers were going on strike following a breakdown in negotiations over a new contract with the company.

Talks broke down after approximately 90% of union workers rejected the most recent contact proposal from the company which would have seen an approximate 6% hike in wages.  However, workers rejected that proposal as they have continued to fight for higher pay, increased paid leave, and better retirement benefits…something they have argued was not in the most recent contract proposal.  One point of contention has centered on John Deere’s talk of moving jobs out of the country, a natural point of conflict for the workers and their union.  John Deere has hedged on that notion but has seemed to leave the door open for a possible export of at least some jobs going forward.

The strike is notable given that it is the first strike at John Deere in several decades.  Whether it will lead to a better contract remains to be seen.  For the time being, however, John Deere has indicated it was activating non union workers to bridge the gap while the strike continues.


For additional information:  https://www.ottumwacourier.com/news/john-deere-workers-eye-strike-after-declining-latest-offer/article_47d87d1c-2a33-11ec-95ca-43c4f300ef06.html

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