Multiple Suspected Gas Explosions In Lawrence, Andover And North Andover

[LisaM]

20. Here, maybe this is it

https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/news/2018/06/26/national-grid-locks-out-more-than-1-000-gas.html

Steel unions Local 12003 and Local 12012 said National Grid failed to negotiate "a fair contract that recognizes the crucial services these workers provide across Massachusetts." The locked out gas workers cover more than 85 cities and towns across Massachusetts.

"National Grid continues to push proposals that threaten public safety and drive down wages. The proposed cuts come as National Grid seeks tens of millions of dollars from Massachusetts consumers in its upcoming rate case, and as the company received a major tax cut from the Trump Administration," union spokespeople said in a statement.

The unions argues that any replacement of experienced gas workers with outside contractors, whether temporarily for a lockout or long-term, poses a safety threat to the public due to the dangerous nature of working with live gas lines.

National Grid said in a statement that "safe and reliable natural gas service will continue" despite the lockout.