Caterpillar Inc. workers have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike if negotiations break down for a new contract with the Peoria-based maker of heavy equipment, the United Auto Workers said Monday. Union leaders stressed that the vote is a standard part of the bargaining process and that the union remains focused on reaching a new deal to replace the six-year contract that expires April 1. Caterpillar spokesman Ben Cordani called the strike authorization a routine procedure in the late stages of contract negotiations. He said talks are continuing as next week's contract deadline looms.þ
Source: Chicago Tribune
