National Grid Workers On Long Island Threaten To Strike Friday

HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- National Grid union workers on Long Island could go on strike at midnight Friday if a new labor agreement with the utility is not reached.

As WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reported, Local 1049 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers authorized a strike last weekend.

The union's contract expires Friday. A strike would affect 1,200 gas and power-plant employees.

Listen to National Grid Workers On Long Island Threaten To Strike Friday

The sticking point in talks appears to be the amount of money employees must contribute for medical and retirement benefits.

Some union workers are calling the company "National Greed."

A spokesperson for the utility said National Grid is dedicated to reaching a fair agreement, and if there is a strike, the company will draw on its experienced management to maintain the system.