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Some 2,700 members of the International Association of Machinists in East Alton, Illinois, went on strike December 4 after rejecting a contract proposed by Olin Corp. The workers said no to company proposals to increase deductibles for health insurance. They demanded cost-of-living wage increases and a more equitable pension plan for retirees. They also called for an end to the two-tier wage system set up by the company, under which newly hired workers start at 80 percent of the regular pay rate. Workers belonging to four smaller unions voted to accept the contract, but are honoring the IAM picket lines. The company is trying to run the plant with administrative personnel.
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