BENEFITS

TEAMSTER
ADVANTAGES

Union membership is more critical than ever. With downsizing and mergers, changes in the economy, and rising inequalities, working people must join together to advocate for fair pay and working conditions.

Under federal law, unions have the right to negotiate a wide range of benefits, including rate of pay, overtime, schedules, pay for training, breaks and lunch periods, health insurance and other benefits, pensions, promotions fairness, sick leave, uniforms and safety equipment, vacation and holiday time, and much more.

Here are just a few of the advantages of joining unions.

• In private industry, union workers earn 38% more than nonunion workers, or an average of $5,241 more a year and 54% more benefits.
• Union blue-collar workers earn $9 more an hour in total compensation than those not in a union.
• Union women earn 39% more than nonunion women; African Americans, 45% more; and Hispanics, 60% more.

Since formation, unions have won a number of life-changing benefits. Among these are the 40-hour work week, the eight-hour day, overtime pay, paid vacations and holidays, health plans, pensions, higher wages for union members, protection from unfair firings, safety and health protections, fairness in promotions and job assignments, and sick leave.

Most employers try to talk workers out of organizing. Why? Because employers know that, with a union, workers gain the power to make themselves heard, and employers must listen. The only way to gain a voice on the job and gain real, positive changes in the workplace is to get it in writing—in a legally binding Teamster contract.

Unions can also provide legal representation for workers who have been unfairly treated or discriminated against by their employer. For example, they can provide protection against unfair disciplinary action, wrongful termination, or other retaliation by an employer. By advocating for more training and education, workers can develop new skills and advance their careers. In addition to advocating for safer working conditions and better health benefits, unions can provide resources to report unsafe working conditions.

Joining a union means being part of a larger community of workers who support each other. It’s about standing up for all workers and creating a better future for everyone. As a public employee, joining a union, such as Teamsters Local 325, means you can help secure a comfortable standard of living and job security for yourself and your coworkers. With a legally binding contract covering wages, hours, and other key working conditions, you’ll have the power to negotiate for what you deserve.

Check out the Teamsters Local 325. You’ll be glad you did.

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WELFARE FUNDS
815-399-0800