To: All BMRF/B&P Employees
The Company has learned that today’s union vote on our offer has not passed. We are disappointed that the Company’s enhanced offer was not ratified.
Our offer reflected the outcome of months of bargaining, and included the Union’s requests to expand support for security and seniority. This was the best offer the Company could make under the circumstances. As explained in the offer, because it was not ratified, the offer will be reduced effective November 1. This has been a long process and we know many employees are eager to return to work. We would like to address a few common questions we are already hearing.
Even though the contract was not ratified, will workers still be returned to work on November 1?
No. Unfortunately, the lockout of USW represented workers will continue. We addressed this rumor previously in our EIB #32. We will continue to operate our facility safely and reliably with our fully-trained workforce.
If there is another vote, could we still ratify before the November 1 changes?
Yes. As stated in the offer, if this offer is not ratified by November 1, 2021, the Company will reduce the amended offer as follows:
- Removal of the $500 Ratification bonus
- Elimination of wage increases for any employees in 2021
- Removal of the right to grieve/arbitrate employee resignations
What happens now?
The Company’s offer remains available at this time. As stated, the offer will change effective November 1 if it is not ratified by that time; however, the updated offer would be available for employees to take to a vote until further notice. A next meeting between the Company and union is not yet scheduled.
In the meantime, we will continue to operate our facility safely and reliably with our fully trained staff, as well as meet with the union should they request bargaining.
As always, please let us know if you have any questions. You can find more information at www.embeaumont.com.