Tim Smith, Director of Region 8 of the United Auto Workers (UAW), joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss ongoing negotiations with Volkswagen, organizing efforts at the BlueOval SK battery plant in Kentucky and concerns about funding cuts to the National Institute of Health (NIH).
Smith provided an update on negotiations between the UAW and Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tenn., noting that while 80 percent of demands have been met, significant hurdles remain in wages, healthcare and retirement benefits. The UAW is pushing for a 24 percent wage increase, while Volkswagen has offered 16.5 percent. Smith emphasized the union's goal is to pattern the agreement after recent successful negotiations with the Big Three automakers, despite Volkswagen's claims of financial constraints. He also highlighted the importance of setting internal deadlines to keep negotiations moving forward.
Organizing efforts at the BlueOval SK battery plant, located just outside Elizabethtown, Ky., face significant challenges due to aggressive anti-union tactics employed by the company. Smith explained that while 30 percent of workers have signed union cards, the company is arguing against holding an election until the plant reaches full capacity. The situation is further complicated by the current state of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which has been effectively dismantled. Smith stressed the importance of worker safety as the primary concern driving unionization efforts at the plant.
Smith then expressed deep concern about proposed funding cuts to the National Institute of Health (NIH), describing them as "a gut punch to scientific progress, economic growth and the fight against deadly diseases." He highlighted the potential impact on research for cancer, heart disease and other critical health issues. Smith also discussed the broader implications of recent political developments, including the firing of NLRB members and how they could potentially impact labor law enforcement and workers' rights across the country.
Listen to the full episode for more insights from Smith on the challenges and opportunities facing the UAW and the broader labor movement.