This week the Teamsters National UPS Negotiating Committee convened for the ninth week of negotiations, and the union leaders discussed a variety of topics that are important to members.

The committee met throughout the week, winding up Thursday afternoon. Topics that were discussed include pulling loads off the rails to create additional sleeper teams throughout the country; allowing destination locals to file grievances on subcontracting; 70-hour work week; health & welfare and pension; as well as wages and progressions.

Earlier in the week, votes were tallied showing that UPS and UPS Freight Teamsters overwhelmingly approved giving their respective negotiating committees the right to call a strike, if necessary.

The UPS members authorized a strike, if necessary, by a 93 percent margin. At UPS Freight, the margin was 91 percent.

“The strike-authorization votes approved by our UPS and UPS Freight members gave the negotiating committees bargaining leverage this week and it will give us leverage during future negotiations,” said Denis Taylor, Director of the Teamsters Package Division and Co-Chairman of the Teamsters National UPS Negotiating Committee. “A strike is always a last resort. And although this vote does not mean that there will necessarily be a strike, it is clear that the members are ready to do what is necessary to achieve a good contract.”

Safety and Health Committee Update

The IBT Safety and Health Subcommittee met this week and presented to UPS several counter proposals on language in Articles 18, Safety and Health Equipment, Accidents and Reports and Article 44, Over 70 Pound Service Package Handling. The committee discussed language governing safety and health committees, heat stress, and building security. The committee reached agreement with UPS regarding language on the handling of over 70-lb small bags and several other proposals in Article 18.

UPS Freight Progress

The UPS Freight National Negotiating Committee received the company’s counter-proposals on economics and will review the proposals in preparation for the next round of negotiations. The committee also had in-depth discussions on issues related to subcontracting.

The next round of negotiations will take place June 18-21.

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