SEPTA drivers, workers authorize potential strike

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Mass transit workers in Philadelphia have voted to authorize a strike, but officials say no strike appears imminent.

The vote Sunday involves about 5,000 bus drivers, subway operators and other workers at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.

They belong to Transport Workers Local 234, the largest of SEPTA's unions.

The group has been working without a contract since spring.

Union president Willie Brown tells The Philadelphia Inquirer that a strike is all but certain.

He plans a news conference Monday to discuss the vote.

SEPTA spokeswoman Jerri Williams says no strike appears imminent. She says the two sides have continued to negotiate to try to reach a contract agreement.

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