It was reported last night that a new deal was “really close” between the UAW (United Auto Workers) and General Motors. As part of getting this close to finishing, GM agreed to reinstated worker’s health benefits. Currently, there are nearly 50,000 workers pounding the picket lines and demanding better benefits and a pay raise. It was announced when the strike happened that GM was cutting off their benefits, but now has decided against that move.
GM has released a statement saying that if any UAW workers have any insurance claim they wish to make, even while striking, they should do so. They will continue to provide their workers the coverage they need to get the help and treatments they need. Before, pulling their health benefits was a good tactic to get the workers back into the factory. Now, the optics behind were too much to bear.
Terry Dittes is the vice president of the UAW’s GM department. He said in a letter sent to GM that it was completely ‘irresponsible’ to terminate worker benefits. They would be “toying with the lives of hundreds of thousands of our UAW families.” In an attempt to improve the optics and soften the hearts of UAW workers, GM made the decision to return their benefits. Even if the strike continues for many weeks and/or months.
A Deal is Getting Close for UAW Workers
Not all benefits are being reinstated to the strikers, though. GM wanted to remind the workers that they are leaving behind great benefits while they decide to remain on the picket lines. Yet, the public seems to be firmly behind the UAW. In this day of social media, taking away people’s benefits is not a good look. GM has been blasted by everyone, including presidential candidates, who firmly support the workers.
“There is no doubt that (the) public … sees these actions of GM as a shameful act!” the letter from Terry Dittes continues. “Finally, it is time for GM to come to the bargaining table with an offer that reflects the hard work of our members who make you successful and will settle this strike on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of UAW families, and stop toying with our families’ health and well-being.”
Today marks the 11th day since the start of the strike. As they continue negotiations, hopefully the strike will be over and everyone can get back to taking care of their families.
