Striking Steelworkers Consider Latrobe's Offer

Latrobe Specialty Steel workers are discussing the company's offer of $1.70 in hourly raises over three years as their strike enters its third week.

LATROBE, Pa. (AP) -- About 360 Latrobe Specialty Steel Co. workers are discussing the company's offer of $1.70 in hourly raises over three years as their strike enters its third week.

United Steelworkers Local 1537 went on strike May 1 after rejecting the company's first offer. Workers then rejected a $6,000 bonus this year and $5,000 bonuses the next two years instead of hourly wage increases.

The plant is operating with temporary workers. The union says it is locked out because workers offered to return and continue bargaining May 9. The company refused that offer and contends the workers are still on strike.

Union local president Kevin Caruso says he doesn't know when the steelworkers might counter the company's latest offer.

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