Pepco Union To Vote On Contract; Strike Possible

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Union workers at the Pepco utility company are scheduled to vote this week on a contract proposal.

The Washington Post reports that union members will vote on the offer Wednesday, and that the two sides haven't been able to agree on a contract despite help from a mediator. The workers could go on strike if they reject the deal, or Pepco could lock them out.

It would be the first strike at Pepco since 1985, when union members walked out for five days.

Pepco spokeswoman Myra Oppel says the lockout "is not something we are considering." But she said the company can nonetheless summon more than 400 contractors if necessary.

The main sticking point appears to be a proposed change to the workers' health and welfare plans.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)