Strike Alert: Electrical Workers in Eastern Oregon on Strike

On Monday, August 24, IBEW Local 125 members at Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative, the member-owned electrical utility serving nearly 60,000 residents in Baker, Grant, Harney, and Union counties, began a strike to protest OTEC’s violations of federal labor law, including the illegal firing of 24-year La Grande lineman Tom Higgins, and to secure a fair labor contract.  

In a press release sent this morning, Local 125 Business Manager Travis Eri explained why his members made the difficult decision to strike: 

 “You’ve heard the saying that an injury to one is an injury to all.  That’s what’s happening here.  OTEC announced a brand-new policy holding a single worker responsible for responding to all after-hours emergencies, without first bargaining with the union as required by federal labor law.  Then they fired 24-year lineman Tom Higgins and disciplined lineman Tad McCrae under that policy when they couldn’t respond.  It’s unfair, and it’s illegal.  We gave OTEC many different ways to fix it, and they flat-out refused.  So, they’ve given us no other choice. We’re striking because hardworking people don’t deserve to be treated this way.”

Take Action

When we stand together to support workers on strike, we can help ensure the strike is both short and successful.  When any worker is treated unfairly or without the dignity and respect they deserve at work, it’s up to all of us to fight for justice.  Please take a minute to send a letter to the OTEC Board of Directors in support of IBEW Local 125 - click here to get started.