The Local 1102 RWDSU UFCW union has announced its participation in the Rally for Respect and Fair Parking at Stony Brook, supporting hospital workers who are demanding an end to what they describe as unfair parking fees. This announcement was made on the social media platform X.
According to Newsday, on April 9, 2025, unionized employees at SUNY Stony Brook University Hospital protested against a new parking policy that requires staff to pay $16.24 per month, with potential increases up to $50. The policy also introduces stricter enforcement measures, including the revocation of parking privileges for missed payments. Union leaders argue that these changes were implemented without proper negotiation and disproportionately affect low-wage healthcare workers.
As reported by Long Island Press, the proposed tiered parking system at Stony Brook University includes fees ranging from $10 for satellite lots to $50 for premium spaces near the hospital. Employees have expressed concerns about the affordability and accessibility of these options, particularly for those working long or overnight shifts. The university cites the need to address an $11 million projected deficit and fund necessary infrastructure repairs as reasons for the fee increases.
According to TBR Newsmedia, multiple unions, including PEF (Public Employees Federation), CSEA (Civil Service Employees Association), UUP (United University Professions), and Local 1102 RWDSU/UFCW participated in the April 9 rally to protest the parking fee increases and advocate for fair labor practices. Union representatives criticized the university’s decision to implement the new parking policies without engaging in collective bargaining. They emphasized that such unilateral actions undermine worker morale and violate established labor agreements.
The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) represents workers in various industries, including retail, food processing, healthcare, and service sectors. Affiliated with the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), RWDSU advocates for fair wages, safe working conditions, and strong labor protections across the United States. The union has been active in organizing campaigns and contract negotiations to support frontline and essential workers during times of economic or workplace uncertainty.
