UAW Asks Automakers To Shut Down US Operations After Another Worker Tests Positive For Coronavirus

As the automotive industry grapples with the effects of the coronavirus, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union is reportedly asking Ford (F), General Motors (GM), and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCAU) to shut down their operations in the U.S.

News of the request comes as a worker at GM’s Warren Technical Center in Michigan tested positive for COVID-19, and another worker at a Fiat Chrysler plant in Indiana, which remains open, also tested positive for the coronavirus.

In a statement about the Warren Technical Center employee, the UAW said, “Since mid-February, the UAW has been actively monitoring and reacting to issues related to the spread of Coronavirus. We are working with GM on the precautions and measures necessary to protect our UAW GM members and everyone who works in our facilities.”

On Sunday, the UAW and the three automakers formed a coronavirus task force to deal with the impact of the pandemic. Ford and General Motors have allowed employees, who are able, the ability to work from home, starting on Monday.

The automakers reportedly requested a 48-hour timeframe to develop a plan for the UAW workers. As discussions progressed, the UAW requested a two-week shutdown, which was denied by Ford, GM, and FCA, The Hill reported.

In a statement (via The Hill), UAW President Rory Gamble said, “Your UAW leadership feels very strongly, and argued very strongly, that this is the most responsible course of action. The companies, however, were not willing to implement this request.”

The 48-hour deadline reportedly expired on Tuesday afternoon, with Gamble saying that if the UAW is “not satisfied that our members will be protected, we will take this conversation to the next level.” Gamble also said that that the union is prepared to use “any and all measures to protect our brothers and sisters who are working in their facilities,” according to the news outlet.

The automakers and the UAW are reportedly slated to meet again at 6 p.m. on Tuesday.

Shares of Ford stock were up 2.40% as of market close on Tuesday while shares of GM stock were down 3.24% at the same time. Shares of FCA stock were down 3.18% at the same time as well.