Update 03/16/26
- 14 hours ago
- 4 min read
Our last update referenced strike pay, and we wanted to give an outline of what that might mean and some details that clarify questions:
What is a strike:
A strike is an organized withholding of our work from an employer. Unions use this as leverage in the negotiation process to achieve gains and improvements in their Union Contract. Our members have been on strike against Weyerhaeuser 2 times in the past 40 years, and most recently in 2022. The IAM takes strikes and going on strike very seriously. We would rather come to an agreement at the Negotiation Table with the Company, so that our members can approve. But the leverage and potential of a strike does play into that. Our Members always have the authority to approve or reject a Contract proposal, and approve or deny going on strike.
What is the process for going on Strike:
Going on Strike is a three-step process:
1. The members approve Strike Authorization through a vote. This is the first step, and will NOT put you out on Strike. This is a simple majority vote, and the expectation is that everyone participates and supports this vote and their bargaining team. This is scheduled for April 9th and April 16th, to accommodate all of our Locals and Shops. Please keep an eye out for more detailed information to come. This Authorization gives the backing of our membership to our negotiation committee to utilize the power of our membership and a potential strike to achieve better outcomes at the negotiation table.
2. There is a rejection of a final proposal from the Company or the expiration of our current contract. This is a simple majority vote of those who vote. We are currently in this negotiation process and will continue until one of these two things happens. There is a final proposal that our members will vote on. Our expectation is that we will receive a final proposal for our members to vote on prior to the expiration date. Or, your Contract expires at 11:59 pm, May 31st, 2026. If we do not receive a final proposal, our members have told us that they do not want to go further without an extension. Our members will decide if an extension or a strike will happen if we don't have a final proposal to vote on.
3. A final Strike Vote. This will take place at the same time you vote on the company's final proposal. This vote is a 2/3 majority vote, not a simple majority. To go on strike, the IAM requires 2/3rds of those voting to approve a strike. If this amount is not achieved, even if the membership has rejected the company's final proposal, there is a strong chance that the membership would be forced to accept the Contract, as the company is under no obligation to return to the table. This is called "backing into a contract." A strike is our leverage and we must be willing to use it, when it matters.
Are we planning on going on Strike:
Our Members have the final say in whether we go on strike or not. But a strike is not something that "just happens" without any planning. Your Locals and District are preparing to support our members if they decide to go on strike. But this is not something we can do "for you." Everyone plays a part in putting on a successful strike. If you are interested in helping; picket signs, pop-up tents, BBQs, food banks, carpooling, scheduling picket duty, or the many other steps needed, please reach out to your Local, or through this website and we can get you connected on how to help.
What is strike pay:
Strike pay is a supplemental amount of money that the IAM provides to assist members while they are on strike. Currently, this is set at $200 per week, after a two-week waiting period.
Who is eligible for Strike Pay:
Members who have continuous good standing for at least 3 months and who have ceased work on account of a grievance approved by the IAM Executive Council, shall receive benefits from the fund. No benefits shall be paid unless the strike extends over a period of more than 2 weeks. Thereafter, benefit payments shall accrue commencing with the 3rd week. Strike benefits shall continue to be paid through the last day of the week in which the strike terminates. Members on strike, but not at the time entitled to benefits because of lacking the 3 months’ membership required herein, shall be entitled to receive benefits as soon as they have been in good standing for 3 months. - IAM Constitution Article XVI
What do I have to do to earn Strike Pay:
Requirements for Strike Duty, in order to receive pay, will be identified in your Local Bylaws or Policies. Generally, it is one or two shifts per week for picket duty.
What about unemployment:
With new legislation passed in Washington and Oregon, workers out on a sanctioned strike are now eligible for unemployment assistance. Just like for the unemployment assistance you may be familiar with, there are requirements and regulations you must follow. Please see the links below for more information:
Please stay vigilant and ready.
Brandon R. Bryant
P/DBR