Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — Talks between the United Auto Workers and Eaton Aerospace are at a standstill as workers enter day two of their strike in Jackson. Over 500 members of UAW Local 475 have walked off the job, demanding better retirement benefits and healthcare. Workers say they’ve been on the picket line since Monday, fighting for fair wages and to protect their pensions.
Union officials say negotiations started July 1, but a tentative agreement was rejected by members. The company’s proposal includes eliminating pension plans for new hires by 2028, which union reps say would hurt older workers nearing retirement.
Eaton Aerospace says it was surprised by the strike but has contingency plans in place to keep operations running. They remain open to further negotiations.