Strike authorization for LAX expected

A strike authorization vote Wednesday appeared headed for approval by about 2,500 unionized janitors, wheelchair attendants, baggage handlers and other service workers at Los Angeles International Airport, a move that could cripple travel plans as the Labor Day weekend approaches. Art Marroquin in the Daily News.

The workers, represented by Service Employees International Union Local 1877, are demanding pay hikes, more health benefits and better job training from their respective employers, who are contracted by airlines operating at LAX.

Results of the strike authorization vote were expected to be tallied late Wednesday night. If approved, the workers could walk off the job as soon as today, but union officials said a strike will only be called when all other options are exhausted.