Batesville Products workers go on strike over union demands

(LAWRENCEBURG, Ind.) – Union workers at Batesville Products in Lawrenceburg are going on a strike. 

The workers have organized with Teamsters Local 135 and say they have concerns over workplace conditions, excessive overtime, wages and benefits. 

They claim that many employees have been working mandatory 60-hour weeks for several months.

The group consists of machinists, polishers, shipping and receiving workers.

“After building majority support among the workforce, employees requested voluntary recognition from the company on April 28. When the company declined to recognize the workers’ union, the employees moved forward with filing for a representation election through the National Labor Relations Board,” the group said. 

A unanimous strike authorization vote was held to demand recognition of their union and respect on the job.

“These workers built their majority themselves, they organized themselves, and now they are prepared to stand together on the picket line for as long as it takes to win the dignity, respect, and representation they deserve,” said Teamsters Local 135 president Dustin Roach.

Picketing is expected to take place outside Batesville Products daily until the company recognizes their union with Teamster Local 135, they added.

“We’re not asking for anything outrageous — we’re asking for respect and a real voice on the job,” said one Batesville Products worker involved in the organizing effort. "That’s why we voted unanimously to strike for recognition of our union.”