More than 750 school bus workers in Rhode Island could strike starting September 2

More than 750 school bus workers represented by Teamsters Local 251 in Rhode Island are on the brink of a strike at First Student, following failed negotiations over local supplemental agreements. The potential walkout could begin as early as September 2, affecting eight First Student locations in Providence, Pawtucket, Lincoln, Smithfield, Central Falls, and across Bristol-Warren, Portsmouth, and West Warwick, as well as statewide out-of-district bus routes.

Teamsters at First Student locations in Rhode Island overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike earlier this summer. The workers, who transport students daily in these communities, have been negotiating with the company over agreements that cover their responsibilities. Matt Taibi, Director of the Teamsters Passenger Transportation Division and Secretary-Treasurer of Local 251, emphasized the urgency of reaching a fair agreement.

"First Student has had all summer to reach fair agreements with the hardworking Teamsters who safely transport students across Rhode Island every day," Taibi stated. "Our members have been clear about what it will take to avoid a strike. Now it's First Student's responsibility to bargain seriously and deliver the fair contracts these workers deserve."

The potential strike has significant implications for the communities involved. Gina Mota, a steward at First Student's Warren location and a member of Local 251, underscored the importance of the workers' commitment to their jobs and the communities they serve.

"We take tremendous pride in getting students to and from school safely every day, and all we are asking for is the same commitment from First Student that we give to our jobs and our communities," Mota said. "We are ready to work, but we are also ready to stand together if that is what it takes to get a fair contract."

Teamsters Local 251 represents over 6,200 workers in various industries throughout Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. The union is committed to ensuring fair treatment and contracts for its members, and the potential strike highlights the ongoing challenges in negotiating terms that meet the needs of both the workers and the company.