Teamsters Local 639 Fights for Fair Contract for Autism Technicians

Registered Behavioral Technicians Picket for First Contract at Verbal Beginnings

Press Contact: Lena Melentijevic Phone: (347) 208-2279 Email: LMelentijevic@teamster.org

(ROCKVILLE, Md.) – A group of dedicated employees at Verbal Beginnings in Rockville have taken to the picket line, driven by their employer's unwillingness to negotiate a fair inaugural collective bargaining agreement. These 33 skilled professionals, represented by Teamsters Local 639, specialize in offering early intervention services to children on the autism spectrum.

"Teamsters at Verbal Beginnings provide essential, highly skilled services that families in this community depend on every day," emphasized William Davis, President of Local 639. "These workers show up for vulnerable children in one of the country’s most expensive counties, and they deserve a contract that recognizes their dedication, skill, and sacrifice."

The workers' decision to join the Teamsters was marked by an overwhelming vote last year. Since then, they've been striving for a fair contract, focusing on crucial issues like fair wages and maintaining their 40-hour work week.

"First and foremost, we are fighting for the wellbeing of the kids we work with," stated Collin Johnson, registered behavioral technician and Local 639 member. "Every one of us cares deeply about the work we do, and we just want to be fairly compensated and respected in order to be able to serve our community to the best of our abilities."

Since 1934, Teamsters Local 639 has represented workers across diverse sectors in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. For more information, visit teamsters639.com.