Brown Statement on UAW Vote to Ratify Contract with GM

Statement

Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) issued the following statement after UAW members voted in favor of ratifying a contract with GM after going on strike last month, as they fought for fair wages and better workplace conditions.

"UAW members throughout Ohio and across the country went on strike, forgoing their paychecks, to fight for fair pay and better job security. And for the last 40 days, UAW members on the picket lines have shown the country what the Dignity of Work is all about. Today's ratification is a testament to the value of the labor movement. Without the UAW, GM could have increased workers' health care costs, kept their wages flat, and continued to use temporary workers indefinitely. More workers need union representation to help them stand up to corporate greed and fight for their rights and the rights of their fellow workers.

"At the same time, this is another in a long line of sad days for the people in Lordstown. GM's unilateral decision this year to close Lordstown and their continued refusal to bring a new product to the plant is a betrayal of the Mahoning Valley. Lordstown auto workers are the best at what they do, and I will continue to stand with them, their families, and the entire community as we fight to bring good, UAW auto jobs to the Valley."

Source