More than 240 members of Local 517 in Bakersfield, Calif., are out on strike against GET Bus, a transportation company in Bakersfield. The local union has been negotiating a new contract with the employer since January. Union members are drivers, mechanics and support staff at the public transportation company.

Union negotiators are focusing on increasing wage rates and increasing the number of full-time positions.

According to KBAK News in Bakersfield, Angel Escandon, a Teamsters 517 shop steward, said, “There’s a big gap between the flex operators and full-time operators, as far as money-wise. We’re united, and I’m going to stand together and strong. I want to work just like everybody else, but I need to make a living, also, and take care of my family.”

 

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