The Machinists Union scored a huge legislative win for IAM Local 778 Members at the Olin-Winchester Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP) in Independence, MO. Proposed budget cuts, now cancelled due to the IAM’s advocacy, would have had a devastating impact on the 1,700 workers at the facility.
The fiscal year 2022 budget unwisely included a 30 to 50 percent reduction in these munitions compared to 2021.
At the time, IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. sent a letter to U.S. House and Senate appropriators, urging them to reject the effort to cut funding for U.S. Army ammunitions, and asking them to restore adequate funding for the procurement of small caliber ammunition for the U.S. Army
“The IAM’s victory ensures that our military will continue to have access to quality ammunition,” said IAM Local 778 Directing Business Representative Joe Capra. “Our highly skilled members take great pride in their work to make the finest ammunition in the world.”
“Our members can be assured that the IAM is fighting for their jobs at every level,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Steve Galloway. “This was a tremendous effort on everyone’s part.”
“This crucial funding secures the work of our members,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “My thanks go to all involved, especially our Political and Legislative Department, whose efforts made a huge difference.”
The Independence facility manufactures the Army’s 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm and .50-caliber rifle ammunition.
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