SAN JOSE, Calif. — Over 1,500 bus drivers, light-rail operators, mechanics and office workers, members of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265, went on strike against the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority here March 10. The system transports 100,000 people a day. Spirited picket lines were up at bus yards and other VTA facilities all across this city.
This is the first strike in the company’s 30-year history. Contract negotiations began last August, but the bosses have refused to make a serious offer.
“The big issues in the strike are: one, money,” Hector Marin, a maintenance worker with 14 years with the company, told the Militant. “The union wants a 19% raise over three years. The company has offered 9%. Two, the right to go to arbitration if we have a grievance. The company says they will decide what grievances, if any, qualify. And three, rejection of the company demand to cut to one year the ability to go on extended leave if you get very sick. Right now it’s two years.”
Many of the strikers told the Militant about the solidarity they’re getting from other Amalgamated Transit Union locals in the area. “It’s really important the Alameda County Transit bus drivers and BART light-rail workers are honoring our strike by not coming past the Milpitas BART stop,” Sam García, a driver with 12 years at the Valley Transportation Authority, said.
The company went to court March 11 seeking a ruling forcing the workers to end their strike. ATU Local 265 President Raj Singh told the San Jose Spotlight the complaint was “absurd,” because the VTA claims the strike is a violation of the old contract, but that contract expired March 3.