Republic Services Teamsters in Washington Approve Major New Contract Benefiting Workers

Major Win for Teamsters in Washington

In a significant achievement for labor rights, the Republic Services Teamsters, represented by Locals 38, 117, and 174, have overwhelmingly ratified a new master agreement. This landmark five-year contract stands as a testament to the collective strength of unionized workers, securing essential advancements in wages, health care benefits, and protections against excessive work hours.

This agreement, which impacts around 350 workers, covers various roles including mechanics, heavy equipment operators, and collection drivers. Workers will experience considerable gains, including improved pay structures, enhanced pension plans, and better health coverage. Notably, it addresses inequalities in wages and benefits for Teamsters at the company’s 3rd and Lander Recycle Center, aligning them with their peers across the organization.

Rick Hicks, President of Teamsters Joint Council 28, expressed his pride in the solidarity demonstrated by the Union members, remarking, "This incredibly strong contract is the direct result of solidarity in action for a huge group of Teamsters standing together across three local unions."

Paul Dascher, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 117, echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the tireless and often dangerous work performed by waste workers and the fair pay and benefits that now recognize their critical role in maintaining community cleanliness.

Strength in Unity

The power of unity is further highlighted in the statements of local leaders. Samantha Kantak, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 38, spoke about the importance of the combined efforts in achieving this contract, stating, "We took the strongest language from all our contracts and merged them into one powerful agreement that will improve the lives of hundreds of Teamsters." This collaborative approach ensured that the most favorable terms were included, significantly elevating the standards for all represented workers.

The contract also introduces several additional benefits that will enhance the working conditions for team members. Employees can expect increased paid time off, a higher boot allowance, expanded bereavement leave, and strengthened safety protections in the workplace. Adding to this, a new legal services benefit provided by the employer will assist workers in navigating legal matters relevant to their employment.

DeShawn Carter, a long-standing Teamster at the 3rd and Lander facility, expressed the transformative nature of this contract: "At the 3rd and Lander facility, we always felt disrespected, but now we're all under one contract that lifts up everybody. We stood together and left them no choice but to give us what we want and deserve."

A Legacy of Advocacy

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, spans across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, representing over 1.3 million dedicated workers. Their mission continues to be a relentless pursuit of fairness and respect for laborers in various sectors. This latest victory in Washington adds another chapter to their storied legacy of union advocacy and labor rights.

As Teamsters take pride in this historic agreement, it serves as a potent reminder that when workers unite, they can negotiate contracts that honor their contributions, ensure equitable treatment, and enhance their quality of life.

For further updates, please visit Teamsters.org and follow them on X @Teamsters or on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.