Support the 900! IBEW 46 unit struggling to get fair contract

KENT (Jan. 25, 2021) — More than 900 members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 46 employed in the union’s second largest unit — Limited Energy / Sound and Communication — are fighting for a fair contract to replace their collective bargaining agreement that expires on Sunday, Jan. 31.

These highly trained, Washington state licensed union members install critical systems that many people take for granted, including voice/data, networking, fiber optics, fire alarm, security, digital antennas, building access controls, card readers, telephone, and other related systems. They perform essential work in King County and the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas to keep local and regional businesses and tech companies running every day.

They have been engaged in contract negotiations for several months, which have been productive until recently. IBEW 46 negotiators had tentatively agreed on multiple elements of the contract until that progress came to screeching halt on Friday, Jan. 22 on the subject of wages.

“The National Electrical Contractors Association has refused to move off of their opening offer,” said Sean Bagsby, Business Manager / Financial Secretary for IBEW 46. “This proud unit of more than 900 skilled workers has continued to fall further behind other trades and classifications, along with non-represented workers for many years, and they are tired. The work they perform is vital to local industries, and they are looking for dignity, respect, good job site conditions, and fair compensation!”

TAKE A STAND — IBEW 46 needs support from the labor community and others to win a fair and equitable contract for these workers. If you see them  in action installing cameras, pulling fiber optic cable, or installing a fire alarm system to keep your building safe, take a minute and tell these IBEW members that you support them and the brave 900!

Stay tuned to The Stand for updates on other actions you can take to support the 900 as negotiations continue this week and contract expiration approaches on Jan. 31. For more information, email IBEW 46 Business Representative Frank Woolsey.

IBEW Local 46 has a proud tradition of quality craftsmanship, leadership in the community, excellent wages and benefits for members, and innovation in organizing the unrepresented. Local 46 represents more than 6,200 members in 19 different craft units in King, Kitsap, Jefferson and Clallam counties. For more information, visit the union’s website at ibew46.com.