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RWDSU Local 108 Wins One for Strauss Workers (5/13/09)

 
Pro-worker rally at a Strauss store in New Jersey in March.
Thanks to a petition brought by RWDSU Local 108, a $672,000 "severance plan" has been disallowed for seven key executives of the company, which has been trying to slash pay and benefits for its unionized workers.
“We maintained all along that this $672,000 severance package is grossly unfair to our members," said Local 108 President Charles N. Hall, Jr. after the decision was handed down. "Strauss thought they could get away with extracting major concessions from our members, while they reward a few of their top executives."

The Local 108 attorney and the U.S. Attorney, who joined Local 108 in the petition, argued that it was disgraceful that a company in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, and seeking to strip their workers of benefits, paid time off and wages should be setting aside this huge amount for the seven executives.
 
The bankruptcy judge ruled he would not allow the $672,000 severance plan because it represented special treatment and payments to company “insiders.”
 
Local 108 members and staff picketed on the street outside the courtroom prior to the case being heard in the Bankruptcy Court in Wilmington Delaware.
"We will continue to do what it takes to ensure that Strauss does the right thing. This is a great victory for Local 108, Strauss workers and all American workers," Hall added.