NEW YORK (AP) —Unionized UPS workers have voted to authorize a strike if they can't reach an agreement on a new contract with the company.

The authorization does not mean a strike will happen; it just sets the stage for a strike if a deal is not reached by July 31.

The Teamsters say 97 percent of unionized workers voted for the authorization to strike.

A UPS strike could create havoc with the national economy.

Many companies are dependent on UPS deliveries, including several in the Michiana area.

Michiana also has several UPS stores and some distribution centers.

ABC57 will keep you updated on this story and the potential local impact.