The vote to strike was carried with an “overwhelming” majority, according to the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, with more than 1,200 members of the labour union’s Local 631 chapter in Las Vegas supporting the measure.
Republic is a waste collection and disposal company that services businesses across the United States, including Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport, casinos and other tourist attractions.
A strike would likely cause major disruptions to waste hauling throughout the city, but members of the Teamsters Local 631 believe such action could be necessary to send Republic Services a message.
Samuel Bronson, an 18-year commercial driver at Republic Services and Local 631 member, criticised the companies’ treatment of its employees and said it was time for Republic “to bargain in good faith and negotiate a fair contract.”
“We have been dedicated workers throughout the pandemic, serving on the frontline to keep Las Vegas clean and safe. This has meant putting our health and well-being at risk,” said Bronson
He added: “The company calls me and my colleagues ‘heroes,’ but they don’t treat us that way on the job. In fact, they don’t even treat us with common human decency.
“We cannot put up with this treatment anymore. This vote reflects our belief that we deserve better. Republic Services must be held accountable.”
Local 631 and Republic Services will return to the negotiating table later this month. The current contract will expire on 31 May.
Chuck Stiles, Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division, commented: “Republic Services will stop at nothing to bust the union.
“Their behaviour during negotiations with Local 631 shows they have learned nothing the past year. Republic workers are fed up.
“They’ve had enough. All across the country, our members are fighting back and telling this company they’re not going to take it anymore.”
