NIPSCO clerical union employees returned to work May 5 after finalizing labor agreements with the United Steelworkers. Physical workers returned to work April 28.
USW Local 13796 ratified their contract May 1 and Local 12775 on April 24.
“Clerical workers made the strategic decision today to ratify their contract and lay the foundation for long-term stability as they continue to build power with their union siblings in the physical unit,” according to a USW statement.
NIPSCO reached a tentative collective bargaining agreement with the leaders of the United Steelworkers union on April 16.
“These agreements deliver first and foremost improved safety standards, more efficient emergency response for our customers, above-historical wage increases and expanded benefits for our people, along with additional career development opportunities,” according a NIPSCO statement. “They reflect our commitment to our workforce and to the communities across Northern Indiana we are privileged to serve.”
The proposal included 4% raises for the next three years. Line workers would receive an additional 5% raise in the first year for a total of 9% and an additional 1% in year two for a total of 5%. The agreement also would cap the number of continuous hours at 16, a reduction from 32 hours to reflect industry standards.
“Our employees are the backbone of NIPSCO,” said NIPSCO in a statement on its website. ” Their skill, experience and dedication are essential to serving customers safely and reliably every day. We remain committed to recognizing that contribution and rewarding their work fairly.”
NIPSCO also reported that the company is not cutting jobs and is committed to created new opportunities for workers. New job titles include: lead solar technician, gas combo and permanent working foreman.
“We have negotiated in good faith from day one. We are proud to offer a proposal that demonstrates our commitment to our customers, communities and employees,” said Vince Parisi, NIPSCO president and chief operating officer, in a press release. ”
USW Local 13796 members, who are clerical workers for NIPSCO, authorized a strike on March 29, with a 92% approval rate, according to Mihoreyah Thomas, union president.
NIPSCO locked out employees who are represented by the United Steelworkers, according to an April 2 press release. The United Steelworkers condemned the action, which locked out about 1,600 union members.
“This lockout is a reckless decision that puts profits ahead of the welfare of our communities,” said USW International President Roxanne Brown in a press release. “USW members keep this system running safely and efficiently, but instead of bargaining in good faith, NIPSCO chose to shut them out and double down on proposals that would erode job security and jeopardize safety for workers and the public alike.”
Contract negotiations began Jan. 20 and included about 200 proposals since then. The current contract expired on March 31, and was voluntarily extended to April 2. But an agreement was not reached, leading to the lockout.
