It includes several changes from the offer workers overwhelmingly rejected last week.
For Cornwell, the biggest change was, “No overtime. That was really the sticking point in trying to make it mandatory on Saturdays. That was a problem for many people.
The new deal also keeps members’ health insurance plans the same as in the previous deal, another major sticking point. General wages are guaranteed to increase by 20% over the four-year contract period, with the cost-of-living adjustment increased to a maximum of 3.5%. Members would also receive a $3,000 ratification bonus.
“Our union, you know, they supported it. Then I researched the IM app and I think it’s a good decision,” said another union member, Jacob Rucker.
While there is more support for this treaty, it took a lot to get the 50 percent majority to go into effect. Almost 80% of union members voted against. Both Rucker and Cornwell think this made voting close.
“It will be a debate between the guys who have been here longer,” says Rucker. “We understand why they are on strike and want to do what is best for their family and everything, but the best thing for me and my family is to get to work.”
Rucker says: “Many people are like me, even if people think differently, they still want better, they want more.”