In separate votes on Sunday, members of UFCW Local 222 overwhelmingly voted to ratify contracts with Tyson Foods and Beef Products Incorporated (BPI) in Dakota City, Nebraska.

By an 85 percent vote, Tyson meatpackers approved the four-and-a-half-year agreement that covers 3,400 workers. The deal raises wages by $1.55 over the term of the contract, and expands health insurance coverage while making health insurance premiums more affordable.

“Overall, we are very happy,” said UFCW Local 222 President Marvin Harrington. “With the economy the way it is and the world right now, we feel we got a really good deal. We’re proud to look forward to four-and-a- half years of not only job security and stability, but wage increases as well.”

Workers at BPI also approved a contract that covers 600 workers over five years. The agreement increases wages by $1.60 over the life of the contract, maintains affordable health care, and strengthens contract language in many areas.