Strike averted as Doormen's Union reaches contract agreement

Local 32JB of the Service Employees International Union is the organization that represents workers in more than 3000 New York apartment buildings, their contract was set to expire today, however, it was renewed on Tuesday afternoon. 

The agreement between the Local 32JB of the Service Employees International Union and the Realty Advisory Board on Labor Relations was announced on Tuesday afternoon. This averted what would have been the first strike by the city's doormen in more than 30 years, which could have left thousands of tenants standing guard in lobbies, sorting mail, and hauling trash to the curb. The Realty Advisory Board represents companies that employ more than 30,000 doormen, porters and building superintendents throughout the city. The firm had been seeking concessions from the union regarding healthcare premiums, sick pay and vacation time among other benefits. Its argument was that their employees were among the 5% of workers who do not contribute to their health insurance. Kyle Bragg, the president of the 32JB said that those terms were non-negotiable and the union will go on a strike if the decision isn't made by Wednesday when the existing contract expires. 

Even though both parties had a tough stance, they came to an agreement eventually. According to the new contract, the annual wage increases averaging 3% over the course of 4 years bringing the salary for a typical doorman to $62,000 by the time the contract expires in 2026. It also includes a $3000 bonus this year. 

Source: The New York Times