Union sues GM, saying laid-off workers should replace temps

(WJBK) - DETROIT (AP) - The United Auto Workers union is accusing General Motors of violating a national contract by using temporary workers instead of employing full-timers who were laid off from its factories.

The union filed a federal lawsuit in Cleveland alleging that GM has temporary workers at its pickup truck plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The lawsuit says GM has about 1,000 workers on layoff from several factories who should be working at the plant.

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The UAW says its contract with GM requires it to hire the laid-off workers, including 690 at a small-car plant in Lordstown, Ohio, which is scheduled to close in March.

Messages were left Thursday seeking comment from the company.

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In November, GM announced plans to shutter five factories this year as it adjusts to lower demand for cars.