Lawmakers Welcome IAM Win at Pratt

Connecticut state lawmakers are applauding the landmark decision by U.S. District Court Judge Janet Hall to block Pratt & Whitney from closing a pair of factories in Cheshire and East Hartford, CT.

“I am very pleased with the court’s decision — Connecticut has some the best highly skilled workers in the country and my colleagues and I have always worked hard to ensure that critical aerospace and defense work continually grows in our state,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) in a statement issued following the decision. “Pratt & Whitney’s decision last summer to move critical jobs from East Hartford and Cheshire out of state and overseas was rash and short-sighted, and the decision last night affirms what we have known for months: they did not negotiate in good faith.”

Rep. John B. Larson (D-CT) also praised the injunction against Pratt &Whitney, calling it an overwhelming victory for Pratt workers and the State of Connecticut. “I congratulate the Machinists Union and its members on successfully challenging the actions of Pratt & Whitney and ensuring more than 1,000 highly skilled jobs remain where it belongs, in Connecticut,” said Larson. “The company’s plans to close both the Cheshire and East Hartford CARO operations without taking every legitimate action to prevent it, is both disheartening and upsetting.”

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, who submitted an amicus brief supporting the IAM position, called Judge Hall’s ruling precedent setting and “bulletproof on appeal.”

IAM District 26 Directing Business Representative Everett Corey thanked the entire Connecticutt delegation, including Governor Jodi Rell, the State Legislature and many other state and municipal leaders for their strong support. “This is truly a win for Team Connecticut,” said Corey.

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