(FORT WAYNE) -- NIPSCO union workers rallied in Fort Wayne and other northern Indiana cities Sunday as contract talks entered their final stretch.
Members of United Steelworkers Locals 12775 and 13769 gathered with signs reading "Fair Contract Now," pushing back on what they describe as steep concessions proposed by the utility company.
Union leaders say the disputed issues include mandatory overtime, reduced pay, changes to sick leave, increased use of contractors and the possible movement of jobs out of Indiana.
They argue the changes would weaken job protections for the workers who respond to gas leaks, downed power lines and other dangerous service calls.
Negotiations have been underway for about eight weeks and are expected to continue up to Tuesday night, when the current contract expires.
Union officials say they hope to reach an agreement or extend talks, but a strike remains possible if no deal is reached.