The United Auto Workers last week voted overwhelmingly to allow leadership to call a strike against Caterpillar if a new contract cannot be agreed upon. The six-year contract expires March 1.

UAW members at seven locals, including Local 974 in East Peoria, voted by a 94-percent majority to authorize a strike if necessary.

The UAW and Caterpillar have been negotiating since December 15. Discussions and negotiations are ongoing.