Union Seeks More Clout At Us West

The Communications Workers of America is seeking the right to organize non-union US West Inc. employees in divisions such as cellular and broadband as part of a new contract, a union official says.

The union also has requested nearly 11 percent in pay raises over the next three years, improved medical benefits and a 14 percent increase in pension benefits, said Bill Thornburg of the CWA.

The CWA and US West are attempting to reach agreement on a new contract before the current pact expires at midnight Saturday.