Union Reaches a Deal for the Sake of Students and Parents
New York, NY – For the sake of students and parents, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1181 New York City school bus workers have reached a tentative agreement with five major school bus providers after marathon contract talks over the past few weeks, averting a strike. The strike had the potential to impact anywhere between 85,000 to 150,000 students in the city.
“Our school bus workers care deeply about their students, who they transport safely to and from school each day. I’m glad that we could reach this strong deal that recognizes the important role they play,” said Local 1181 President/Business Agent Tomas Fret. “After almost a year of negotiations, the ATU has secured a contract that not only improves the lives of our hardworking members but also enhances the safety and reliability of school bus services for our communities.”
Earlier this month, ATU International President John Costa joined Local 1181 for a meeting with NYC Mayor Eric Adams to discuss the possible driver strike. The Local was encouraged by the meeting after delaying their strike to start the new school year. In August, Local members voted by over 90 percent to authorize strike action over wage parity and other issues.
The union secured wage increases and other protections, including getting back provisions they lost over a decade ago. Our members will vote on the deal in the coming weeks.
“This agreement is a monumental victory for our Union and all school bus workers across New York City,” said ATU International President John Costa. “I am so proud of our Local 1181 members. They stood united, and because of their strength and solidarity, they now have a strong tentative agreement that recognizes their commitment and dedication to providing safe and reliable transportation for our most precious cargo, our students. Thank you, Mayor Eric Adams, for your invaluable support in securing this agreement. Your dedication to our city and its workforce is commendable.”
While the union applauded this agreement, there are still outstanding negotiations with three companies.