Volkswagen Autoworker to Testify to Congress on VW’s Unlawful Conduct in Tennessee and New Jersey

On Wednesday, October 8, Steve Cochran, a 13-year Volkswagen autoworker in Chattanooga, Tennessee, will testify before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee on Volkswagen’s unlawful conduct over the past two years of organizing and negotiating for a first contract with the UAW. 

Cochran, co-chair of the UAW Bargaining Committee and a skilled trades worker at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant, will highlight Volkswagen's unlawful behavior that has denied VW autoworkers justice over the past 2 years of organizing and negotiating a fair contract. 

“[Volkswagen] has repeatedly violated labor law to delay us our fair share,” Cochran submitted in written testimony. “They have unlawfully cut jobs at the plant. They have unlawfully refused to bargain in good faith. They have presented us with a quote-unquote final offer that maintains horrible healthcare, doesn’t protect our wages from inflation, and makes no commitment to keeping good jobs in Chattanooga.” 

“All we are asking for in Chattanooga is a union contract. We are asking for a fair wage, healthcare that doesn’t put you into bankruptcy, and basic rights that thousands of autoworkers already enjoy at Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, and at automakers across the world.” 

 “Volkswagen made $20 billion in profits last year. And yet when it comes to doing right by American workers in Tennessee, they break the law with impunity. And the federal government refuses to act. And working-class people in Tennessee pay the price.” 

Cochran will appear alongside former National Labor Relations Board General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo, Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien, and other witnesses. 

The media and the public can view the hearing live at this link on Wednesday, October 8, at 10 a.m. Eastern. 

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