200 Bus Workers Secure Additional
Protections, Improved Compensation in New Agreement
RENO, Nev.,
July 26,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Bus workers at Keolis
Transit, the contractor for the Regional Transportation Commission
of Washoe County, represented by
Teamsters Local 533 have voted to ratify a new collective
bargaining agreement. The three-year agreement has eliminated
mandatory mediation in the grievance procedure and includes
improved disciplinary procedures, better wages, longer lactation
breaks, Juneteenth as a holiday, increased employer pension
contributions, additional equipment insurance and annual
allowances.
"This is a historic contract for our members who provide
essential public transit services to the community. We made no
concessions and secured significant wage increases, improved health
and welfare benefits, and enhanced retirement security for our
hardworking members," said Gary
Watson, President of Local 533.
"We are thrilled with the outcome of the negotiations," said
Debbie Calkins, Secretary-Treasurer
of Local 533. "We showed Keolis Transit that we are not going to
back down or settle for less than what we deserve. We thank RTC
Washoe for recognizing our value and contribution, and we are ready
to keep delivering the best public transit service to the people of
Washoe County."
The 200 Teamsters work as bus drivers, technicians, dispatchers,
road supervisors, and utility workers for the largest public
transportation provider in Northern
Nevada.
"I am thrilled for all my brothers and sisters—especially those
who are new moms because we were able to secure them 30 minutes
paid each time they need to need to provide lactation nourishment
for their newborns," said Amanda
Nelson, a six-year coach operator at Keolis and Local 533
shop steward. "Along with all other economic gains in this
agreement, we are setting the bar for Teamsters transit
workers."
Chartered in 1934, Teamsters Local 533 represents about 2,300
workers in various trades throughout northern Nevada and eastern California. For more information, visit
teamsters533.org.
Contact:
Matt
McQuaid, (202)
624-6877
mmcquaid@teamster.org
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SOURCE Teamsters Local 533