Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of SMART-TD Local 1594 reached a tentative agreement with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) on Thursday, preventing a holiday work stoppage.
This deal comes just days after the same contract was also approved by their union brothers, sisters and siblings at Transit Workers Union (TWU) Local 234. It contains major advances around core worker issues like workplace safety, wages, benefits and quality of life. Importantly, the contract also ensures that bus, train and trolley operators will not be replaced by automation.
“The new agreement brings SMART-TD members to parity with the other unions on the property and sets the stage for a future built on respect, fairness, and shared purpose,” SMART said in a press release. “This was a hard-fought win is another example of why this union is here: when SMART-TD members stand together, we move forward—with strength, unity and respect from our employers. Congratulations to every member of SMART-TD Local 1594. You’ve earned this victory.”