Teamsters Win Strike, Secure Record Contract with Republic Services

Nationwide Strike Culminates in Historic Agreement for Waste Workers

In a decisive win for the Teamsters, a comprehensive contract has been approved with Republic Services, a leading waste services provider, marking the end of a significant nationwide strike.

The contract ratified by the Teamsters of Local 728 in Cumming, Georgia, has been described as setting new standards in pay and benefits within the waste management industry. Sean M. O’Brien, Teamsters General President, stated, “Republic’s greed and arrogance were no match for Teamsters’ strength and solidarity.”

The strike, which began in early July, affected more than 500 workers in various locations including Boston, Ottawa, Illinois, and Lacey, Washington. The larger ripple effect of this strike saw over 2,000 workers participating across multiple states such as Massachusetts, Ohio, Illinois, and California.

Fred Zuckerman, the Teamsters General Secretary-Treasurer, criticized the management of Republic Services, stating, “Jon Vander Ark and his cronies wasted tens of millions of dollars and harmed countless communities in a failed attempt to undermine our members.”

As a result of their determination, Republic Teamsters nationwide secured pay increases up to 46 percent. Workers also achieved enhanced labor protections and health benefits that significantly reduce their monthly expenses.

Victor Mineros, Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division, praised the efforts of the Teamsters, remarking, “I can’t say enough about how proud I am of every Republic Services Teamster who took part in this strike.”

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, represents a vast network of 1.3 million members across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit Teamster.org. Follow their updates on X and Facebook.