SBC, Union to Talk Beyond Strike Deadline

Negotiators for SBC Communications Inc. and a labor union representing 100,000 workers agreed to extend their contract past tonight’s strike deadline, the chief federal mediator said Friday.

The Communications Workers of America could still call a strike on 24 hours’ notice, but mediator Peter J. Hurtgen called the extension “a strong indication of the good faith being shown by both sides” to reach a deal.

The two sides are expected to continue bargaining through the weekend and will meet Monday with Hurtgen.

“We’re hopeful and anticipate reaching an agreement without a work stoppage,” said Larry Solomon, a spokesman for the company.

A strike could affect local phone service in markets throughout SBC’s range in the West, Midwest, Southwest and Southeast, although the company had planned for management employees and retirees to handle key duties in case of a walkout.

Negotiations between the San Antonio-based company and the union have focused on contract provisions on wages, job security, healthcare and pensions.

The old contract representing workers in 13 states expired April 3.

Earlier Friday, Candice Johnson, a spokeswoman for the union, said its members wouldn’t necessarily strike at midnight even if the two sides had failed to reach an agreement.

She said members might stay on the job if contract talks were progressing.

SBC has not endured a strike in 21 years.