Workers at EQ Environmental Services/Republic Services in Southern California have voted to authorize a strike, aiming for fair treatment and a robust first contract. Represented by Teamsters Local 396, these workers handle the transportation of hazardous materials across the region.
The decision reflects the workers’ readiness to secure better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Victor Mineros, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 396 and Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division, stated, “These workers perform dangerous, high-stakes jobs that protect our communities and environment every single day. They deserve a contract that respects their contributions — not lowball proposals and corporate stonewalling. The company must bargain in good faith.”
This vote is part of broader labor actions by Teamsters at Republic Services sites nationwide, including locations in Massachusetts, Illinois, and California. Republic Services is noted as the second-largest waste and recycling company in the U.S., facing ongoing demands from its workforce for improved job conditions.
Teamsters Local 396 represents numerous sanitation and transportation workers across Southern California. It is affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which includes over 1.3 million members throughout North America.
