#USA #Morgantown #Teamsters Local 89 #Real Alloy

Historic Contract Adoption at Real Alloy

In an unprecedented move, the members of Teamsters Local 89 have unanimously ratified their first collective bargaining agreement with Real Alloy in Morgantown, Kentucky. This contract marks a significant milestone for the workers, representing their commitment to uplift their working conditions through concerted efforts.

The recent agreement, secured after the authorization of a strike, signals the first formal negotiations between the Teamsters and the company. Avral Thompson, the President of Local 89, expressed optimism about the deal, stating, "This contract will improve the lives of these hardworking men and women and raise the standard of living for the entire community." This sentiment resonates deeply within the community, as improved worker conditions are likely to have a ripple effect on local employment standards.

Under the new collective bargaining agreement, the 136 workers at Real Alloy will benefit from substantial pay raises, enhanced retirement plans, and more favorable time-off policies. Importantly, the contract ensures access to Teamsters health insurance, significantly reducing employee deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses. Such protections will undoubtedly provide significant relief to workers navigating the rising costs of healthcare.

Throughout the negotiation process, perseverance and unity among workers proved essential. Daniel Cartmill, a business agent for Local 89, remarked, "The company stalled during negotiations, but our members remained steadfast. They were united in their resolve to achieve a fair agreement." The backing of the Teamsters has evidently strengthened the workers' voices, leading to this successful outcome.

The pride felt among the Real Alloy employees is palpable. Brian Wright, a worker and member of Local 89, shared his enthusiasm: "All of us here at Real Alloy feel a great sense of pride now that we are covered under our first Teamsters contract. By standing together as one, we have achieved the change we wanted to see on the job. We aren't following trends — we are trend setters!" Wright's comments encapsulate the transformative spirit that this agreement has inspired, not only within Real Alloy but also potentially across other facilities.

Teamsters Local 89 represents workers from various industries across Kentucky, advocating for better working conditions and rights. With this historic agreement, the organization has reinforced its commitment to improving workers' lives. The ripple effects of such achievements often extend beyond the immediate workforce, inspiring similar actions across the region.

For those interested in joining the fight for better working conditions, Teamsters Local 89 remains dedicated to welcoming new members and supporting initiatives aimed at advocating for labor rights. To learn more about the Teamsters and their ongoing efforts, please visit Teamsters89.com.

Through collective bargaining and solidarity, the workers at Real Alloy have set a powerful precedent, demonstrating that unity can lead to significant advancements for labor rights. This contract is not just a victory for the employees of Real Alloy, but rather, a beacon of hope for workers everywhere seeking to advocate for change, fairness, and respect in their workplaces.