RICHLAND, Wash. – Hanford Guard Union members voted on a proposal that could bring them back to work after a prolonged lockout.
The voting is set to conclude by 7:30 p.m., with HGU letting Hanford Mission Integration Solutions know of their vote immediately.
Earlier on in the week, a federal mediator met with HMIS and the Hanford Guards Union (HGU)to discuss proposals and counteroffers. In that meeting, they only agreed on one adjustment to H-MIS’s final proposal.
Chris Hall, union president at HGU Local 21, said the proposal they’re voting on feels less like an agreement and more forced.
“The feeling though throughout the membership is that this is not really a vote. It’s more of an intimidation and coercion tactic of them saying you’re going to take this,” said Hall.
If the union votes no, Hall stated they will contact HMIS to present their next proposal as soon as possible. Originally, the lockout began on Nov. 27, leading to many Hanford Patrol workers being forced off-site and out of their jobs. Since then, union members have been picketing in various locations across town.
Hall says despite the challenges he and his members have faced, they’re still holding out to come to an agreement.
“It’s been hard on them,” said Hall. ” Luckily, the membership has kept their spirits up pretty high, so that’s been a plus on our side.”
HMIS plans on releasing a statement following the decision made at tonight’s vote.
