Electric Boat says it is preparing for a strike by its marine drafters, after the MDA union rejected an offer which the company revealed includes a 23.3% general wage increase over the life of the contract.
The two sides have been at odds over renegotiating a contract for 2,500 workers at the Groton submarine yard. The employees have been working under an expired contract since April 4.
On Monday, the union announced that two-thirds of its voting members had authorized a strike.
The company issued a statement Wednesday saying it stands behind its last offer.
“EB has successfully bargained with the MDA and our other union partners for over 30 years without any significant disputes,” the statement said. “We value our MDA partners and we believe our offer is compelling. While we prefer to reach a mutually beneficial agreement, we are actively preparing a business continuity plan in the event of a work stoppage.”
Union leaders say wages are still at issue, as are higher healthcare costs, and the restoration of pension rights to some workers. The union told members Monday that the company had proposed raising healthcare costs by more than 50%.
It has not yet announced a strike date.
