Local trash collection stalled in solidarity with Teamsters strike

Thousands of residents in South Snohomish County experience disruptions in trash and recycling services due to a Teamsters strike involving Republic Services workers. The strike, affecting over 2,000 union members nationwide, highlights demands for fair pay and addresses concerns over corporate greed. Local union members joined the strike in solidarity with workers at Republic's Lacey, Washington facility. Republic Services characterizes the situation as a “temporary work stoppage,” promising to double collections on the next service days to alleviate customer inconvenience. The company is currently in contract negotiations with the union, which represents nearly 8,000 employees across the U.

S. Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien emphasized the need for workers to unite for better wages and benefits. The strike reflects broader issues within labor relations in the waste management industry. This situation raises questions about corporate practices and employee treatment within essential services.