WASHINGTON—Stellantis filed eight additional lawsuits today against the United Auto Workers (UAW) and 23 local union units, accusing them of violating their contract by threatening strikes due to delays in planned investments. This follows a previous lawsuit filed last week against UAW Local 230 in Los Angeles over a strike authorization vote.
UAW members at Stellantis’ Los Angeles distribution center recently voted to strike if the company and union cannot resolve a grievance over investment delays. Stellantis held a meeting with the UAW and rejected a proposal to reinstate the "Jobs Bank," a program that protected workers from layoffs but contributed to the company’s bankruptcy in 2009.
UAW President Shawn Fain argues that Stellantis violated the contract by not fulfilling its investment promises, while the company claims these investments are subject to market conditions, particularly slowing demand for electric vehicles. Stellantis agreed in 2023 to invest $1.5 billion in its Belvidere, Illinois plant by 2027, but some investments have been delayed.
The UAW also seeks to reinstate the Jobs Bank for employees affected by the Belvidere plant closure, while Stellantis argues it remains committed to its investment plans despite economic challenges.