This site provides general negotiation updates and does not replace communications from the Unions, the employees’ bargaining representative.
Update · October 22, 2026
A majority of represented employees voted not to ratify the Tentative Agreement on October 16. We respect that result. Please see the mailer sent to your home with more information and ask your Union representative or submit a question, so you can make an informed decision before November 16.
123 years of copper. Built by people like you.
For more than a century, Kennecott has supplied domestically sourced copper to the U.S. and beyond, one of the critical materials inside our phones, computers, cars and homes. None of it happens without you. Our employees are the heart of this operation, delivering safe and stable copper production for our community and our country.
Generations of families have built their lives here. With Apex, the proposed mine-life extension up for approval, we have a chance to carry that legacy into the next generation.
Hear from Nate
Current timeline
Oct 13–14
Kennecott and Union leadership negotiate a three-year extension and reach a Tentative Agreement.
Oct 16
A majority of represented employees vote not to ratify.
Nov 16
Ratification deadline for current proposal, and to have labor stability in place before the Apex decision.
Nov 19
Rio Tinto Investment Committee meets to decide on Apex.
Dec 10
Rio Tinto Board of Directors meets to approve Apex.
Why we're talking now
The current CBA doesn't expire until March 2027. Rather than wait, Kennecott proposed early negotiations to Union leadership, limited to a three-year extension of the current CBA and wages.
Since the vote, we've heard your comments and questions. We understand employees may have questions about the proposal. This site is here so everyone has a shared understanding and can get their questions answered.
Make an informed decision
Read the details
Review the wages, benefits and FAQs on the mailer sent to your home.
Get your questions answered
Reach out to your union leadership, or submit your question here before November 16.