Lucent Members Vote Strike Authorization

Lucent bargaining unit members have voted overwhelmingly, by more than 90 percent, to authorize the CWA Executive Board to call a strike if bargaining cannot be successfully concluded by contract expiration on Oct. 31, Communications and Technologies Vice President Ralph Maly reported as talks continued in Washington, D.C. A strike date would be set by CWA President Morton Bahr.

"This show of solidarity will send a clear message to the company bargainers that they need to bargain seriously with CWA," Maly said. "Our resolve is strong. Our strike fund is healthy. Our members are ready to do whatever it takes to reach an agreement they deserve."