Teamsters Local 89 is demanding that employers provide PPE, inform workers who may have been exposed to COVID-19, increase paid leave and pay hazard pay to workers who are serving our communities in this pandemic, at risk to themselves and their families.

Teamster Local 89 adopted a resolution which is a model for a union approach to the COVID-19 crisis.

The local will meet with employers to work for real protections for Teamsters doing essential work during the COVID-19 crisis.  

The Resolution demands that employers address four critical concerns: 

• sanitize workplaces and provide all PPE needed for safety
• inform workers when other employees test positive or are quarantined
• provide at least two weeks paid sick leave for workers affected by coronavirus
• increased compensation for workers during this pandemic

Local 89, which represents 16,000 Teamsters in the Louisville area, will meet with employers to discuss the issues.

The Local is also calling upon the International Union to do the same with employers under national contracts.  This would include YRC and ABF, which have not yet agreed to provide sick leave or enhanced compensation. UPS has agreed to two weeks sick leave, but on important health issues has been slow to respond.  Carhaul employers agreed to two weeks sick leave, and also two weeks of health care benefit paid for Teamsters laid off. 

Many employers are not complying with CDC and OSHA guidelines which state that workers should be informed when a co-worker is infected with COVID-19 or quarantined.  That puts profit over the health of our families.

Thanks to Local 89 leaders and members for showing leadership and taking action for all Teamsters.