AT&T and the Communications Workers of America have failed to reach an employment agreement for more than 22,000 wireline employees in nine southeastern states including Georgia.

In August, the two sides outlined a three-year contract, but it was subject to ratification. The deadline was Friday.

According to AT&T, the deal included an 8.2 percent wage increase over three years and a health plan the company described as "robust."

The company said negotiations would continue.

Southeast region employees did ratify smaller contracts for billing and utility operations. Those deals cover about 400 workers.

CWA members have ratified an AT&T Midwest deal for more than 13,000 employees and a national contract that covers 5,700 AT&T Corp. employees. AT&T West and AT&T East contracts are still pending.

Tags: AT&T, Communications Workers of America, CWA