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Union encourages Boeing machinists to approve new contract offer

The latest contract offers a 38% general wage increase over four years, among other gains from the weeks-long strike.

SEATTLE — Boeing union machinists will vote on another contract Monday, a proposal that is endorsed by the union, according to IAM District 751.

The union announced Thursday that it is endorsing the latest contract presented by Boeing and is recommending its over 32,000 members on strike vote in support.

“It is time for our Members to lock in these gains and confidently declare victory,” the union posted on social media Thursday afternoon. “We believe asking members to stay on strike longer wouldn't be right as we have achieved so much success."

The latest contract includes all asks achieved in the Sept. 12, 2024 contract, along with “the additional gains you achieved by going on strike.”

It includes a 38% general wage increase over four years, which compounds to 43.65% over the lifetime of the contract agreement, according to the union.

It also includes a $12,000 ratification bonus, comprising the previous ratification bonus of $7,000 and the lump sum of $5,000 into the employee's 401K. Union machinists can choose to receive the amount in their paycheck, contribute into their 401K or a combination of both.

“In every negotiation and strike, there is a point where we have extracted everything that we can in bargaining and by withholding our labor,” the union stated. “We are at that point now and risk a regressive or lesser offer in the future.”

Boeing said Thursday the average machinist would be paid, on average, more than $119,000 annually if this offer is accepted.

"I think we can get more," picketer Stuart Whiting said Thursday.

While Whiting still plans on voting no, IAM District 751 labor union leaders are urging their members to vote yes. 

"That’s what they’re saying," said Whiting. "It's not their choice. It's the members' choice."

Also in the new contract is a 100% 401k match up to 8% and reinstated incentive pay. But this still isn't enough for some members. 

"They didn't address the pension, and it's still the pension," said Whiting.

Boeing leaders have said they will not bring pension back, arguing it’s too expensive and no longer a necessity.

Pension programs are more rare these days in the private sector. A recent survey shows in the 80s, nearly half of U.S. Workers had pension plans, but nowadays, only one in 10 do.

As Boeing announces this latest offer, they are also telling employees, “We encourage all of our employees to learn more about the improved offer and vote on Monday, Nov. 4.”

The news comes after a group of dozens of business chambers leaders across the U.S. sent the negotiating parties a letter urging for a swift resolution to the strike.

Voting takes place Monday, Nov. 4. Information on voting locations and times will be announced later Thursday night.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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