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BP and USW Talks Restart at Whiting as Lockout Continues

BP's refusal to return to the prior contract signals a prolonged dispute.

Overview

  • BP said the union left the latest meeting without engaging on key issues after requesting that the company lift the lockout.
  • United Steelworkers Local 71 says it wants the lockout lifted and rejects proposed cuts to more than 100 jobs, pay reductions, limits on bargaining rights, and a six-year deal.
  • The company says it will keep bargaining during the lockout and will not operate under the previous agreement because it believes that deal created safety and operational risk.
  • Roughly 800 refinery workers have been locked out since March and many have gone nearly two months without pay as local groups stock the union hall with groceries and supplies.
  • BP reports the refinery is running without disruption and highlights its large economic footprint in Northwest Indiana, underscoring the stakes for the region.