Summary
Garbage collection workers at Republic Services have been on strike since July 1, affecting waste management in several U.S. cities. The workers, represented by the Teamsters union, claim they are underpaid compared to others in the industry, while Republic Services accuses the union of illegal activities. The strike has resulted in trash piling up across the country, impacting millions of people.
Key Facts
- Republic Services is a large waste management company with contracts across the U.S.
- Workers began striking on July 1, starting with Local 25 in the Greater Boston area.
- The strike has spread to several cities, including Manteca, California, and Lacey, Washington.
- The Teamsters union, representing the workers, claims the workers receive low pay and poor benefits.
- Republic Services accuses the union of illegal actions like truck theft and vandalism.
- Over 2,000 garbage collectors were not working at the strike's peak, affecting many Americans.
- Some local disputes have been resolved, but many workers are still on strike.
- The increase in uncollected garbage has led to legal actions against Republic by affected communities.
