The United Auto Workers union has ratified a new contract with General Motors, making it the first Detroit automaker to get a ratified deal that could end a lengthy labor dispute. The agreement includes wage increases, improved job security, and a pathway to permanent employment for temporary workers, as well as a $11,000 signing bonus and a commitment from GM to invest $7.7 billion in U.S. plants over the next four years. The ratification of the deal came under doubt Wednesday morning, but a swing in voting results in favor of the deal gave the agreement a much needed lifeline. The new agreement is expected to bring stability to the auto industry and set a new standard for the industry.
