John Deere Union Ok Tentative Deal To End Strike

A union representing John Deere employees reached another tentative deal Saturday to potentially end a strike a little over two weeks after workers rejected their initial agreement, Sommer Brokaw reported for United Press International (UPI.)

Photo Insert: The unionized John Deere workers have been on strike since October 14 of this year.

Over 10,000 unionized John Deere workers went on strike Oct. 14 over a lack of sufficient wages and pension, and the strike will continue throughout the ratification process, according to the statement on the new tentative deal by the United Automobile Workers (UAW).

Workers at the agriculture equipment maker's 14 plants, including seven in Iowa, four in Illinois, and one each in Kansas, Colorado, and Georgia, have been part of the strike.

UAW Vice President and Director of the Agricultural Implement Department Chuck Browning said the new agreement includes "enhanced economic gains" and the "highest quality healthcare benefits in the industry."

UAW President Ray Curry said in the statement that the negotiating team went back and received input from union members before coming up with the new agreement.

"We want to thank the UAW bargaining team and striking UAW members and their families for the sacrifices they have made to achieve these gains," Curry said.

"Our members have enjoyed the support of our communities and the entire labor movement nationwide as they have stood together in support and solidarity these past few weeks."

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