Workers at Waste Management, Inc. in Southern California who belong to Teamsters Local 396 overwhelmingly ratified a contract that sets standards for waste workers in the region.

“This contract provides substantial improvements to the workers’ medical coverage as well as significant wage increases and increases in company contributions to the workers’ pension plan,” said Ron Herrera, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 396 in Covina. “It also provides for an improved and expedited grievance and arbitration procedure to protect our members’ jobs. Furthermore, we’ve negotiated first-of-its-kind language to protect the rights of immigrant workers.”

The five-year contract was ratified overwhelmingly on January 8. It covers nearly 300 workers at centers in Santa Ana and Irvine, and a transfer center in Irvine.

“With its improved wages and benefits, this contract will bring fairness and security for ourselves and for our families over the next five years,” said shop steward Jorge Gomez, a 23-year Teamster and driver at Waste Management who served on the Local 396 Negotiating Committee.

“Our members work hard to keep their communities safe,” said Javier Bonales, Vice President of Local 396. “This contract recognizes their hard work.”

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