The most recent contracts between the union and the steelmakers expired 1 September, and the extensions avert any strikes, at least for the time being. Though the parties have been bargaining since July, labor and management remain apart, according to union updates.

In an update to ArcelorMittal employees, the union said it is unsatisfied with "the little progress” it has made since talks began. 

“Our negotiating committee has been patient in the face of ArcelorMittal’s attempts to frustrate us. We have sought out common ground where management only seeks to divide,” the union said. 

Meanwhile, in an update to U. S. Steel employees, the union said it will be planning to take a strike authorization vote. 

“We will … continue to try to bring the company to their senses, but that authorization is necessary to bring them into the real world,” the union said. 

In both cases, the union contends that the steelmakers are seeking what amounts to concessionary contracts at a time of high profitability in the industry.  

ArcelorMittal has previously said that though the industry is turning a profit, the integrated steelmakers still face significant cost pressures. And U. S. Steel is disputing that it's offering concessionary deals, noting that its latest proposal includes base wage increases and retirement benefit increases. 

The offer, incidentally, also includes a promise to resume construction on the stalled electric arc furnace project at its Fairfield Works in Alabama, with completion targeted in two years.   

In a separate labor battle, Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. said it, too, has agreed to day-to-day contract extensions with United Steelworkers at its Bridgeville, Pa., USA, plant. 

“We are very pleased to extend the negotiating timeframe to allow for a mutually agreeable labor agreement without disruption to the operations and to continue to serve our customers' needs,” said Universal Stainless chairman and chief executive Dennis Oates. 

The Bridgeville plant makes semi-finished specialty steel products. Employees at other Universal Stainless facilities in New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania are covered by separate collective bargaining agreements.