The United Auto Workers (UAW) went on strike starting at midnight on Sept. 15. With a lack of consensus on negotiations, this is the first time UAW workers have struck at all Big Three automakers simultaneously. About 300,000 Michigan workers are hourly employees in the automotive industry. The union has been in contract negotiations with the automobile companies fighting for fair pay and better benefits. This strike comes in addition to other strikes by workers at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Ascension Health.
House Democrats have a long history of firmly standing in support of hardworking Michigan families, and since gaining majority this year, the lawmakers have made historic strides to uplift the workers who keep Michigan running by repealing anti-worker “right-to-work” laws, re-establishing prevailing wage, restoring collective bargaining rights and helping to keep more money in Michiganders’ pockets.
I hope for a swift resolution that delivers a contract with fair pay, better benefits and safer working conditions for auto workers in Michigan and across the nation.