New contract for Miami solid waste workers highlights the union difference

https://www.afscme.org/blog/new-contract-for-miami-solid-waste-workers-highlights-the-union-difference

By Mark McCullough · Thursday, June 13, 2024

MIAMI – After Gov. Ron DeSantis rammed extreme union-busting legislation through the Florida Legislature last year, the members of Local 871 (AFSCME Florida) resolved to fight to retain their union.

They jumped through every hoop, signed and re-signed every new card and were one of the first locals to pass the law’s 60% membership threshold. Today, nearly 85% of the workers in Local 871’s bargaining unit are AFSCME members.

Now, these determined workers have a contract to show what keeping a strong union can do. The workers — who all work for Miami’s solid waste department — recently ratified a new three-year contract with the city. Retroactive to October 2023, it holds the line on their pension and health care costs, strengthens their voice on the job and delivers real wage increases.

“The past few years have seen public service workers come under attack but this contract shows that when you stand up and fight for what is right, you are going to win more times than not,” said Joe Simmons Jr., a waste equipment operator with the city of Miami and president of Local 871.

FULL story at link above.