Star Tribune drivers have moved step closer to a walkout that could paralyze the bankrupt paper's print operation. According to a memo from publisher Chris Harte, the drivers voted Tuesday night to authorize a strike if U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Drain grants the company's request to throw out their contract.
Teamsters Local 638 business agent Bob Moore refused to confirm the news, saying only, "If that's what Chris Harte says, that's what Chris Harte says."
Harte notes that Drain is scheduled to hear the matter June 9. Though Harte contends the drivers are being asked to take the same cuts other unions have accepted, members would suffer disproportionate pension cuts because of rules governing the Teamsters Central States Fund.
Union and company leadership has agreed on all other cuts aside from the pension. Harte notes that despite the strike authorization vote, bargaining will continue Thursday.
Link"
them, we'll drive this company under before we take cuts to our pensions". [/teamster mode]
