Boeing and the machinists’ union have reached a preliminary agreement on a new proposal to possibly end the weeks-long strike.
More than 33,000 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at Boeing sites in Washington, Oregon and California have been on strike since September 13.
Members of IAM District 751 and W24 received details about Boeing’s new proposal on Saturday, October 19. IAM District 751 shared the news with members early Saturday morning, saying, “With the assistance of Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su, we have received a negotiated proposal and resolution to end the strike, and it deserves a presentation to the members and is worthy of your consideration.”
Members will vote on Wednesday, October 23, on whether to accept the proposal. According to IAM District 751, details of the potential strike settlement — including the date employees would return to work if the vote passes — will be part of the vote.
IAM751 has broken down the terms of the new proposal:
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Wages: An overall wage increase of 35%, spread over four years (12% in year 1, 8% in year 2, 8% in year 3 and 7% in year 4).
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Incentive Pay: The AMPP incentive plan is being reintroduced, with a guaranteed minimum annual payout of 4%. Includes a 2024 payout in February 2025.
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Retirement: Company 401(k) match increased to 100% of the first 8% contributed, in addition to an automatic 4% company contribution. In addition, there is a one-time contribution of $5,000 to each unit member’s Boeing 401(k).
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Retirement: The BCERP multiplier benefit increases to $105 for incumbent employees.
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Ratification Bonus: A one-time bonus of $7,000.
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Sick Call: Reverts to the existing contract language call before removing the team language from the contract.
The union said they are working to secure voting locations to accommodate members, and that there will be only one vote to accept or reject the bargaining agreement. No tie vote is required, and a simple majority (50% +1) of members’ votes will determine the outcome.
IAM District 751 President Jon Holden and IAM District W24 President Brandon Bryant released the following joint statement:
“The fact that the company has come forward with an improved proposal is a testament to the determination and dedication of the frontline workers who have been striking – and the strong support they have received from so many. This proposal will be carefully reviewed and approved by Boeing’s frontline workers, whose dedication to their communities and families has made this company successful in the past. Employees will ultimately decide whether this specific proposal is sufficient to meet their very legitimate needs and goal of achieving respect and fairness at Boeing. Like many workers in America, IAM members at Boeing have made great sacrifices for their employers, including during the pandemic when these workers reported to the plant while executives stayed home. These workers deserve to have all these sacrifices recognized.”
Boeing also released a statement Saturday morning saying, “We look forward to our employees’ vote on the negotiated proposal.”
The company included a fact sheet alongside the statement, outlining the proposed terms:
IAM751 concluded their statement with a message to their members: “The future of this contract is in your hands. Thank you for your continued input and support throughout this process.”
