Contract negotiations prevent electricians from Alabama assisting in post-hurricane repairs

Contract negotiations are preventing work crews from Alabama Power from assisting in the Florida clean-up in the aftermath of Hurricane Charley. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers have voted to give the power company 48-hours notice if a breakdown in negotiations lead to a strike. A representative of the company said it would be unfair to Floridians if they sent workers that may be affected by a work stoppage.