By Mark Bashore, WKAR
LANSING, MI –
Festering disagreements between unionized workers and the American Red Cross have led to another work stoppage in Lansing. Disputes dating back several years include the right to bargain over healthcare, safety, and staffing. Lynne Meade of Teamsters local 580 says a revised Red Cross healthcare plan would be a setback.
"They want us to agree to take whatever it is that the national American Red Cross is offering," she says. "They can change it at any time, they can charge us or they can take it away."
Red Cross officials say the national plan is a good one that reflects current cost realities. Unionized workers also struck in June of last year over the impass. More bargaining is scheduled for September 17.