WEIRTON, W.Va. -- The United Steelworkers union said its members have voted to give it the authority to launch a nationwide strike against ArcelorMittal.

Members of Local 2911 in Weirton voted during two sessions at the Knights Of Columbus hall Wednesday.

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The union has been negotiating with Luxembourg-based ArcelorMittal since April over a new labor contract that would cover more than 14,000 workers and tens of thousands of retirees.

The current contract expires Monday.

ArcelorMittal is the world's largest steel producer.

"ArcelorMittal now knows that we have a very united group of steel workers," said Mark Glyptis, president of Local 2911 in Weirton. "I believe once you see the final tally across this country, it will be very much in favor of a strike authorization. It's a strong message to (company owner) Lakshmi Mittal. Let's get this contract done and let's get back to making steel."

Tuesday, the union distributed a notice to workers at 14 plants operated by ArcelorMittal saying there had been a "lack of progress" in the talks.

ArcelorMittal said it remains committed to working with the union to reach a settlement before Monday.

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