BP Whiting Refinery Union Threatens Strike as Contract Talks Fail

United Steelworkers union members vote to authorize walkout at largest Midwest refinery

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The United Steelworkers union has urged employees at BP's Whiting, Indiana refinery to prepare for a potential strike or lockout after 98% of the roughly 800 union members voted to authorize a walkout. The call comes following weeks of unsuccessful contract negotiations between the union and the British oil company, with the union claiming BP has rejected almost all of their proposals with little discussion.

Why it matters

The Whiting refinery is the largest in the U.S. Midwest, producing key transportation fuels like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. A work stoppage could disrupt fuel supplies across the region and impact prices at the pump. The dispute also highlights ongoing tensions between oil companies and labor unions over issues like job cuts and workplace protections.

The details

According to the union, BP has proposed eliminating more than 200 union jobs across operations, maintenance, and environmental safety, as well as removing certain workplace protections. BP disputes the union's claims, saying there has been ongoing dialogue and that the company remains focused on reaching an agreement to avoid a work stoppage. The prior three-year collective bargaining agreement expired on January 31.

  • The prior three-year collective bargaining agreement expired on January 31, 2026.
  • On February 5, 2026, 98% of the roughly 800 union members at the Whiting refinery voted to authorize a strike.

The players

United Steelworkers Local 7-1

The labor union representing around 800 workers at BP's Whiting, Indiana refinery.

BP

The British oil company that owns and operates the Whiting refinery, the largest in the U.S. Midwest.

Eric Schultz

President of United Steelworkers Local 7-1.

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What they’re saying

“BP has rejected almost all of our proposals with very little discussion. We will continue to bargain in good faith and stand united in demanding a fair contract for all of our local union members.”

— Eric Schultz, President, United Steelworkers Local 7-1 (Reuters)

“Allegations that there has been little dialogue between BP and the union are inaccurate. BP remains focused on reaching an agreement and avoiding a work stoppage.”

— BP spokesperson (Reuters)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between oil companies and labor unions over issues like job cuts and workplace protections. A work stoppage at the Whiting refinery, the largest in the Midwest, could disrupt fuel supplies and impact prices across the region, underscoring the high stakes involved.