More than 60 union transit employees in Phoenix, AZ were locked out of work at 12:01 a.m. Monday morning by Veolia Transportation Services after collective-bargaining talks came to a stalemate at Sunday night’s 11:59 p.m. deadline. The Arizona Republic reports that although the majority of buses are keeping regular schedules in metropolitan Phoenix today, there is the possible threat that other unions could launch a strike in response. Veolia runs 33 of the city’s 99 bus routes in the Valley Metro line.
Charges of not negotiating in good faith have been leveled by both sides. The Teamsters local objects to the company’s idea of outsourcing some union jobs. Veolia is also in negotiations with two other unions, but so far no other union workers have been locked out. Together, both unions represent over 600 bus drivers and approximately 100 mechanics. For more, visit www.azcentral.com.