Houston Bus Workers Join Teamsters Local 988 with Unanimous Vote

Houston Airport Bus Workers Unite Under Teamsters Local 988

In a unanimous vote, nearly 100 bus operators and customer service representatives at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport have joined Teamsters Local 988. These employees, who are aligned with joint employers Transdev Transportation and REM Services, handle transportation services for the airport's rental car center.

Robert Mele, President of Local 988, emphasized the critical role that Teamsters play in the functioning of Texas’ major airports. He stated, “Teamsters play an integral role in the operations of one of Texas’ busiest airports. After years of stagnant wages and false promises, these workers saw what other Transdev workers were getting as Teamsters and decided it was time to get what they deserve. This victory would not have been possible without our determined new members and the strong partnership with the International Union’s organizing department.”

Local 988 already represents a significant number of bus workers in the Houston area, including over 400 drivers providing services for the Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority.

Newly inducted Teamster and bus operator Lester Sneed expressed enthusiasm about the unionization, stating, “We saw what other bus workers got as Teamsters, and we knew we needed to join. Our unanimous decision to form a union sends a clear message that we will no longer put up with the status quo. We are looking forward to getting our first ever Teamsters contract that addresses the changes we need.”

Teamsters Local 988, operational since 1967, represents a diverse group of workers across Houston and nearby areas. More details can be found at teamster988.org.