SEATTLE — Boeing machinists currently on strike are expected to vote on a new contract offer from the company next week as the strike enters its fifth week.
IAM District 751 said Saturday it received a negotiated proposal and resolution to end the strike and that it will present it to members for a vote on Wednesday, Oct. 23. The union did not recommend accepting or rejecting the proposal but said it is worth consideration.
According to the union, the latest proposal includes a 35% general wage increase spread over four years, near its demanded 40% wage increase. It also includes the reinstatement of a performance incentive plan, increased contributions to 401k plans, a $7,000 ratification bonus and more.
The latest proposal does not reinstate the machinists' pensions, which were removed as part of contract negotiations in 2014 and a key part of the union's demand.
Earlier negotiations on Sept. 18, Sept. 27 and Oct. 3 didn’t result in an agreement between the two groups
“The fact the company has put forward an improved proposal is a testament to the resolve and dedication of the frontline workers who’ve been on strike — and to the strong support they have received from so many," union district presidents Jon Holden and Brandon Bryant said in a statement.
“We look forward to our employees voting on the negotiated proposal," Boeing said.
The union credited acting Labor Secretary Julie Su for helping produce the new proposal. Su met with company and union officials this week in Seattle in an indication of the Biden administration’s concern about the strike’s impact on the economy.
About 33,000 members of IAM District 751 began a strike on Sept. 13 after more than 94% voted to reject a Boeing offer that was supported by union leadership.
The strike by workers in Washington state, Oregon and California has halted production of Boeing 737s including the 737 Max, and 767s and 777s. Boeing is continuing to build 787 Dreamliners at a nonunion plant in South Carolina.