Boeing firefighters hit picket lines as WA strike deadline looms [Video]

RENTON, Wash. – Members of the International Association of Firefighters Local I-66, representing firefighters at Boeing, took to the picket lines in Renton and Everett on Monday after overwhelmingly rejecting two prior contract proposals.

With more than 80% of the union voting against the previous offers, concerns over pay, career advancement and safety standards remain at the forefront of discussions.

The primary sticking points leading to the rejection of Boeing’s previous offers have been outlined by union officials:

The decision to picket and return to the bargaining table reflects the determination of Local I-66 firefighters to secure a fair and equitable contract that addresses their core concerns.

Local I-66 represents more than 120 firefighters, who staff Boeing fire stations in Auburn, Everett, Renton, Seattle and Moses Lake. These specialized Boeing firefighters are on hand every time a Boeing-built aircraft is fueled or takes off on a test or delivery flight, and serve as …