ATU Local 618 Members to Vote on Deal Over the Weekend
Warwick, RI - After a strike threat, escalating job actions, and months of bargaining, Warwick Public School Bus Drivers, members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 618-Providence, RI, have reached a tentative agreement with contractor First Student, averting a strike. The members are expected to vote on the deal over the weekend.
After two days of intense bargaining between the Union and First Student, the parties reached a tentative agreement that addressed the workers’ critical issues and concerns.
“This is a great day for our Warwick School bus members,” said Local 618 President/Business Agent Walter Melillo. “Our members stood strong and united and fought hard for a fair contract. We are thankful for the outpouring of support from our parents and teachers. After months of negotiations, this contract recognizes our members for the heroes they truly are.”
The tentative agreement includes significant wage increases, retirement security, and other improvements for the school bus drivers. The Union and First Student have been bargaining since April. After talks stalled this past summer, the school bus drivers overwhelmingly voted on August 6 to authorize a strike if necessary.
“I’m proud of our Warwick Public School bus drivers for their strength and unity to secure a tentative agreement with living wages that will allow them to provide for their families,” said ATU International President John Costa. “This is a victory not only for these workers but for their students and parents who rely on our members to transport students to and from school safely. Thank you to everyone who supported us during these negotiations. From a strike authorization to your practice pickets, your solidarity made all the difference.”