BUFFALO, N.Y. — Starbucks Workers United is launching a strike authorization vote Friday as contract talks remain stalled.

The union — founded here in Buffalo — represents more than 12,000 workers at over 650 stores. Members say they're fighting for better staffing and scheduling, higher pay, and a resolution to hundreds of unfair labor practice complaints.

Dozens of rallies and pickets are planned nationwide.

Negotiations broke down last December, and while the two sides entered mediation in February, baristas rejected Starbucks' proposed pay package in April.

If workers approve the strike, it would mark their third walkout since last December.

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