Kapstone Paper & Packaging workers strike over ‘unjust federal labor laws’
AWPPW claims the action relates to unfair labor practices (ULP) at the firm’s Longview, Washington mill, citing it allegedly continued a pattern of violating the law by illegally outsourcing bargaining unit work to outside contractors.
KapStone will continue to proceed with operations
Union officials claim the firm also refused to negotiate 194 rules and policies that apply to its 153's members.
"The company has shown a callous disregard for the law by failing to provide to the Union information which is critical to the bargaining process," said John Minor, bargaining spokesperson, AWPPW.
It states the company unlawfully imposed its "last offer" by declaring impasse before the parties had concluded negotiations.
In response to the allegations, KapStone said it had been preparing for a potential strike since the Union voted down its prior offers.
The firm said it is conducting a cold mill outage to perform necessary maintenance to its machines and has full contingency plans in place to continue to service its customers during the strike.
After the maintenance outage, it will run its largest machine early next week, with subsequent machine operation to follow.
“KapStone does not expect any interruption of service or products to its customers,” it said in a statement.
Containerboard & corrugated packaging products
Headquartered in Northbrook, IL, KapStone Paper & Packaging is the fifth largest producer of containerboard and corrugated packaging products and the largest kraft paper producer in the US.
The company has four paper mills, 21 converting plants and 65 distribution centers with approximately 6,200 employees.
According to Kurt Gallow, president, AWPPW Local 153 members have spoken out, loud and clear.
“Kapstone's continued illegal activity is unacceptable, the company cannot continue to break the law. The Union membership is striking over the company's unlawful conduct," he said.
The Union has filed numerous Unfair Labor Practice charges against Kapstone in response to the activity.
The National Labor Relations Board regional office has found merit in several charges and has issued a complaint against the company. Other charges remain under investigation.
