AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Detroit's carmakers and the United Auto Workers union have officially begun bargaining for a new four-year contract.
UAW and Chrysler Group leaders kicked off the talks Monday morning with a series of friendly handshakes. The current contract expires Sept. 14.
Company and union officials wore matching maroon jackets to signify their unity. Both sides say they want fair contracts that keep the automakers competitive.
But the talks could get heated. Workers agreed to give up pay raises and benefits to keep the companies in business four years ago. Now that Chrysler, General Motors and Ford are profitable again, workers want compensation for their sacrifice.
UAW President Bob King says further financial sacrifices from union members aren't justified, but the union will consider other ways to cut costs.
