Hispanic Workers Fired for Organizing With Teamsters at Republic Services in Las Vegas

Hispanic recycling workers at Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) in Las Vegas were fired this week after expressing their desire to seek union representation with Teamsters Local 631. Management announced the first wave of firings following the launch of an organizing effort by the more than 200 workers.

To date, 30 workers have been terminated by Republic. Many of the fired workers – who are all Hispanic – have been employed by the company for up to 11 years.

“This is a blatant attempt by Republic to intimidate these workers,” said John Phillipenas, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 631. "The timing of the firings has led us to file unfair labor practice charges with the federal government. Republic underpays and exploits these workers who are only trying exercise their right to gain a voice in the workplace. This is just another example of why we need the Employee Free Choice Act.”

The recycling workers say they face extremely hot, dusty and dirty conditions without adequate ventilation and cooling. Some workers toil in areas without any fans. The unacceptable working conditions were just one of the primary issues that prompted the workers to seek union representation. Teamsters Local 631 represents more than 1,200 workers at Republic including the transfer workers and drivers that service the Las Vegas area.

“The Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division will not stand idly by while these workers at Republic are used as pawns in the company’s attempt to sabotage their organizing efforts,” said Robert Morales, Director, Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division. “The International and Local 631 will work together to ensure that Republic is not allowed to violate the rights of their workers.”

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.