LOUISVILLE, Ky. — One-hundred-twenty striking Monument Chemical workers in Meade County are now back on the job after the union and Monument Chemical were able to agree on a new contract.
The protests over alleged unfair labor practices during contract negotiations and protesting employer proposals to eliminate shipper positions – those who specifically trained to handle hazardous and explosive materials with the potential of replacing them with inexperienced staff.
Those protests began Aug. 23 and lasted for a week.
The 32BJ SEIU said the new three-year contract includes a nine percent pay raise, better job security and safe working conditions. Workers will also receive an increase in eligible holiday pay from eight hours to 12 hours.
Getting a fair deal done for our members was crucial to this community because they are such an enormous part of Meade County,” Robert Smith, Kentucky State Director of 32BJ SEIU said in a statement. "This agreement ensures that experienced workers will continue to handle these potentially dangerous chemicals, ensuring the plant's safety. They are happy to get back to work with a contract that reflects the importance and excellence of what they do."
Monument Chemical produces chemicals for companies including Coca Cola, Fuji, and Tempurpedic.
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