Negotiations Begin
Negotiations for a new national contract with Hallcon began on July 18 in Sacramento, CA. UE presented proposals on a range of non-economic issues, including drivers’ rights, work rules, management manipulation of the road board, ensuring drivers are paid for all time worked (including breaks, van swaps, DOT physicals, disciplinary phone calls and time spent cleaning or maintaining the van) and several other items. Already we have reached agreement with the company on several issues including driver safety and more.
Soon we will begin discussions over economic items in the contract. We will be proposing significant improvements in benefits (including health insurance and retirement), paid time off and wage rates (including longevity pay for senior drivers and on-call pay for road drivers.) As your committee said to Hallcon last week, “Drivers need substantial wage increases, and we aim to push for them. Drivers at Hallcon deserve living wages, not poverty wages.” Bargaining continues this week in Chicago, IL.
Excerpt from UE Opening Statement
“Conditions in this industry are such that the driver cannot get ahead...We see as our ongoing mission to raise standards in the industry and getting the message to the railroads. We come at these bargaining sessions with the view that without the driver, the Company does not operate.”
Read the full statement here.
Next Bargaining Dates
- July 24 & 25
Chicago, IL - August 1, 2 & 3
San Bernardino, CA
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