Philadelphia SEPTA Strike Averted: Transit Workers Union Local 234 Workers to Remain on the Job as Negotiations Continue Friday
SEPTA Strike Averted, Talks to Continue
A strike by Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) workers has been averted, as union members voted to continue negotiations with the transit agency. The strike was set to begin on Friday, September 1, but was called off after union leaders reached a tentative agreement with SEPTA.
The agreement includes a 2% wage increase for workers in the first year of the contract, and a 2.5% increase in the second year. The contract also includes increased health care contributions from SEPTA, and a new paid parental leave policy.
SEPTA and Union Negotiations Continue
The union and SEPTA will continue to negotiate over other issues, including working conditions and pension benefits. The two sides have been in talks for months, and have been unable to reach an agreement on a new contract.
The union has been pushing for higher wages and better benefits, while SEPTA has been trying to keep costs down. The transit agency has been facing financial challenges in recent years, and has been looking to cut costs.
SEPTA Strike Would Have Devastated Philadelphia
A SEPTA strike would have had a devastating impact on Philadelphia. The transit agency provides transportation for more than 1 million people each day, and a strike would have crippled the city.
The averted strike is a relief for both SEPTA and the union. The two sides will continue to negotiate, and hopefully reach an agreement that is fair to both sides.