Philadelphia city workers union votes to authorize strike over contract dispute

Members of Philadelphia's largest city workers union, AFSCME District Council 33, voted to authorize a strike. Over 9,000 city employees have been without a contract since July, seeking better wages and benefits. Union leaders have expressed dissatisfaction with a proposed one-year contract extension and a $50 pay increase. They argue that current wages do not meet the cost of living in Philadelphia. The vote allows union leaders to call a strike if negotiations fail. They plan to notify the city administration of a potential strike in 10 days while hoping to reach an agreement to avoid it.