New Haven Bus Drivers Strike Over Safety Concerns

New Haven Bus Drivers Strike Over Safety ConcernsNew Haven Bus Drivers Strike Over Safety Concerns New Haven, Connecticut – Bus drivers in New Haven have gone on strike, citing safety concerns and a lack of adequate protective measures against the COVID-19 pandemic. The work stoppage began on Monday, March 14, 2022, and has affected thousands of commuters. The striking drivers are members of Teamsters Local 443 and are protesting the lack of transparency from the New Haven Department of Transportation (NHDOT) regarding safety protocols. They claim that the agency has not provided sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and hand sanitizer, and has not installed adequate ventilation systems on the buses. “We have been working under unsafe conditions for too long,” said strike leader Carl Simpson. “We demand that the NHDOT take our concerns seriously and implement the necessary measures to protect us and the passengers we serve.” In response to the strike, the NHDOT has released a statement expressing regret and disappointment. The agency claims that it has taken steps to address safety concerns, including distributing PPE and installing air purifiers on the buses. However, the drivers maintain that the measures are insufficient and that the agency has not provided them with adequate information about the risks of COVID-19. They also argue that the NHDOT has failed to implement a clear and consistent sick leave policy for drivers who test positive for the virus. The strike has had a significant impact on public transportation in New Haven. Commuters have been forced to find alternative ways to get to work, school, and other destinations. The strike has also affected businesses and the local economy. Negotiations between the union and the NHDOT are ongoing, but a resolution to the dispute is not yet in sight. The drivers have vowed to continue their strike until their safety concerns are addressed. The New Haven bus drivers’ strike highlights the ongoing challenges faced by essential workers during the pandemic. They are demanding that their employers prioritize their safety and provide them with the protections they need to do their jobs safely.