Armstrong Ceiling Workers Nix Labor Contract

Marietta, PA, June 8, 2007--A union that represents more than 300 hourly employees at Armstrong World Industries' ceiling plant in Marietta, Lancaster County, rejected a four-year contract offer this week, according to the Central Penn Business Journal.

The bargaining committee of United Steelworkers Local Unit 441 had recommended that members sign off on the deal. The two sides worked out an accord June 5, the day the previous contract expired.

Thursday morning, Manor Township-based Armstrong issued this statement: "We are disappointed in the vote and believe that the tentative agreement is a fair and equitable offer for all parties. We will be discussing next steps with the union and a federal mediator."