Textron Aviation Halts Health Insurance Amid Strike
Textron Aviation has announced that it will temporarily suspend health insurance for striking workers at its Wichita, Kansas facility, as the labor dispute enters its second week. The decision comes after the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 774 (District 70) initiated the strike on September 21, 2024, in response to the company’s latest contract offer.
On September 29, 2024, IAM Local 774 took to social media platform X to inform members that health insurance coverage for striking employees would be paused effective September 30, 2024. In light of this announcement, the union stated it would increase the local strike benefit for members who have serious health conditions and may struggle without health insurance. Affected members are encouraged to visit either the East or West Strike Headquarters to apply for additional assistance from the Light Aircraft Steering Committee’s local strike fund.
To support members during this challenging time, the Light Aircraft Steering Committee has agreed to raise the strike benefit by $150 per week for those who qualify. This increase will elevate the total weekly strike benefit amount to $350, providing crucial financial assistance for workers facing health-related challenges.
In a statement released on September 30, 2024, the IAM Local 774 Negotiating Committee expressed its willingness to reengage with Textron Aviation to negotiate a fair contract. The union highlighted that its members made a clear statement by overwhelmingly rejecting the company’s offer, emphasizing the need for Textron executives to provide more for the skilled workforce that has established Wichita as the “Air Capital of the World” for generations.
Support for the striking workers has been evident, with IAM leaders showing solidarity on the picket lines. On September 28, 2024, Craig Martin, the General Vice President of the Southern Territory, along with Reggie Dixon, the Chief of Staff for the Southern Territory, joined Textron workers on strike, reinforcing the union’s commitment to advocating for its members.
The labor dispute intensified when IAM Local 774 members voted to reject Textron’s contract proposal, which included a 26% salary increase over four years, an annual bonus, and various benefits. This rejection led to the strike, as workers sought better terms that reflect their contributions to the company and the aviation industry.
Negotiations had been ongoing before the strike, and the union announced that mediators had been contacted, indicating that talks could potentially resume the following week. Both parties remain at an impasse, with the union advocating for more favorable terms to secure the livelihoods and welfare of its members.
As the strike continues, the suspension of health insurance raises concerns among workers about their ability to access necessary medical care. The IAM Local 774 is working diligently to provide support and assistance to its members during this critical time, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective bargaining power.
With no immediate resolution in sight, the situation remains fluid as both Textron Aviation and IAM Local 774 strive to reach an agreement that serves the best interests of the workforce and the company. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the workers and the future of Textron Aviation in Wichita.
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