Associated Press
Thursday, December 11, 2008

CHICAGO, Dec. 10 -- Workers approved a $1.75 million agreement Wednesday, ending a sit-in that lasted six days at a Chicago window and door factory.

U.S. Rep. Luis V. Gutierrez said each former Republic Windows & Doors employee will get eight weeks' salary, all accrued vacation pay and two months' paid health care. He said it works out to about $7,000 for each worker.

The plant's owners, union leaders and Bank of America forged the agreement Wednesday.

Gutierrez said $1.75 million will go into an escrow account for the workers.

Bank of America spokeswoman Julie Westermann said the company lent $1.35 million. Gutierrez said J.P. Morgan Chase added $400,000.

Workers began their sit-in after the plant gave them three days' notice that it was closing.