Akron, Ohio ? Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and union workers have solved some of their contract disputes but have not worked out a deal, both sides said Monday.

The Akron, Ohio-based company’s contract with the United Steelworkers of America expired April 19 but has been extended. It covers 19,000 employees at 14 plants, including a Topeka plant.

Goodyear spokesman Chuck Sinclair said both sides made progress over the weekend when the union submitted a counterproposal to Goodyear’s latest offer. The union rejected the offer last week, saying it didn’t provide adequate health care benefits.

Sinclair would not reveal details.

Steelworkers spokesman Wayne Ranick said there were still some “critical issues” that needed to be addressed.

Quality health care for workers and retirees, job security and a plan to get Goodyear’s finances on track are among the key issues, he said.