You are connecting from Lake Geneva Public Library, please login or register to take advantage of your institution's Ground News Plan.
Published 3 days ago • loading... • Updated 3 days ago
Union School Bus Drivers, Monitors on Strike in Marlborough MA
Drivers and monitors say NRT Bus’s latest offer does not provide affordable health care, and the union struck after negotiations stalled.
On Wednesday, school bus drivers represented by Teamsters Local 170 struck in Marlborough after months of failed contract talks with NRT Bus, the company holding the transportation contract for Marlborough Public Schools and Advanced Math and Science Academy Charter School.
Contract negotiations collapsed Friday when NRT Bus walked out of a bargaining session; healthcare emerged as the central dispute, with the company offering a 60-40 health insurance split that Jim Marks, business agent for Teamsters Local 170, said falls far short of affordable access.
Drivers expressed concern about facing $2,000 to $5,000 medical bills; after reporting Tuesday hoping to restart talks, workers said the company refused to negotiate, and Marks disputed NRT's claim of a weekend agreement.
NRT Bus deployed replacement drivers and a contingency plan to maintain service past the picket line on Fox Road in Hudson; officials reported no school disruptions Wednesday as buses continued operating.
The 2023 strike lasted three days before workers returned; school officials expressed hope for a speedy agreement, though the current strike's duration depends on when NRT Bus returns to the bargaining table.