The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is calling on members of Congress to pressure U.S. Navy shipbuilder Bath Iron Works (BIW), a subsidiary of General Dynamics, to negotiate a fair contract agreement with 4,300 IAM Local S6 shipbuilders entering the fourth week of a strike.

IAM members began the strike June 22 after overwhelmingly turning down a contract that according to the union would have allowed the company to greatly expand its use of low-wage, out-of-state contractors, without any recourse for the union. The expired shipyard contract allowed for subcontracting after a joint review period by the union and company. The union maintains BIW is now seeking a blank check to subcontract additional work with no input from union workers.

According to the union, BIW has refused to return to the bargaining table with the IAM, despite being six months behind its delivery of destroyers to the U.S. Navy.

“The machinists union is ready and willing to work with all partners in our effort to save these vitally important jobs and ensure that the necessary skilled workforce is available to continue to build the world’s greatest ships for the U.S. Navy,” wrote IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. in a July 14 letter to Congress. “We ask that you start by sending a strong reminder to the company of its commitment to these workers, U.S. taxpayers, and our men and women in uniform who rely on world-class ships built by world-class shipbuilders.”

According to the union, the company used to hire most of its workers at approximately $24 an hour, but a vast majority of new hires now make $17 an hour. The IAM said it has offered other workable options to increase the workforce, such as increasing the percentage of overtime worked, which the company has used at decreasing levels.

BIW Spokesman David Hench said the company continues to be fully engaged with the federal mediator. Said Hench, “... (We) look forward to achieving a workable solution that allows BIW to be competitive while respecting the needs of our valued workforce.”

A union press release stated U.S. Reps. Jared Golden and Chellie Pingree have both expressed support for IAM Local S6 members on strike. Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has also urged BIW to negotiate a fair contract, according to the release.