Seattle Union Record News - Latest Articles

Boeing Machinists Strike Enters Third Week as Negotiations Stall

Seattle Union Record Editorial Team — Sun, 15 Sep 2025 08:00:00 GMT

The Boeing machinists' strike has entered its third week with no resolution in sight as negotiations between the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and Boeing management remain at an impasse.

Key issues include wage increases, healthcare benefits, and job security guarantees. The union is seeking a 25% wage increase over three years, while Boeing has offered 15%.

The strike is impacting production at Boeing's Renton and Everett facilities, potentially affecting delivery schedules for major airline customers.

Seattle City Council Passes Expanded Labor Protections for Gig Workers

Seattle Union Record Editorial Team — Sat, 14 Sep 2025 16:30:00 GMT

In a unanimous vote, the Seattle City Council has passed groundbreaking legislation extending labor protections to gig economy workers across the city.

The new ordinance requires app-based companies to provide minimum wage guarantees, paid sick leave, and workers' compensation coverage for their drivers and delivery workers.

The legislation affects an estimated 40,000 gig workers in the Seattle metro area and is expected to be implemented within six months.

Ballard Starbucks Workers Vote to Unionize in Historic Victory

Seattle Union Record Editorial Team — Sat, 14 Sep 2025 11:20:00 GMT

Workers at the Starbucks location in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood have voted 12-3 to unionize, joining the growing Starbucks Workers United movement.

The victory comes after months of organizing efforts and represents the fifth Seattle-area Starbucks to successfully unionize this year.

Workers cited concerns about scheduling, workplace safety, and having a voice in company decisions as key motivators for unionizing.

Swedish Medical Center Workers Authorize Strike Over Staffing Concerns

Seattle Union Record Editorial Team — Fri, 13 Sep 2025 20:45:00 GMT

Healthcare workers at Swedish Medical Center have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, with 89% of SEIU Healthcare 1199NW members supporting the action.

The authorization comes after months of failed negotiations over staffing levels, with workers arguing that current staffing puts patient safety at risk.

While no strike date has been set, the authorization gives union leaders the power to call for work stoppage if negotiations don't improve.

Seattle Building Trades Announce Major Apprenticeship Program Expansion

Seattle Union Record Editorial Team — Fri, 13 Sep 2025 13:15:00 GMT

The Seattle Building and Construction Trades Council has announced a major expansion of its apprenticeship programs, aiming to train 1,500 new skilled workers over the next two years.

The expansion includes new programs in green construction technologies, focusing on solar installation, energy efficiency retrofits, and sustainable building practices.

Priority will be given to applicants from underrepresented communities and military veterans, with wraparound support services including childcare and transportation assistance.