LANSING – Today the Michigan AFL-CIO launched an online petition aimed at supporting Grand Rapids transit employees. The state labor federation is gathering signatures from taxpayers telling Peter Varga, CEO of The Rapid, to reach a fair and just contract with members of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 836.
“Grand Rapids’ hardworking bus drivers deserve a decent living, safe working conditions, and the chance to retire with dignity,” said Ron Bieber, President of the Michigan AFL-CIO. “It’s great to see Grand Rapids is doing better, but with 26 percent of the city’s residents living below the poverty line, we can’t afford to let it become a place where all of the gains go to the folks at the top, while working families are forced to keep paying more and more.
“At a salary of $200,000 per year, Mr. Varga makes $41,000 more than Governor Snyder. Now he wants bus drivers who keep the city moving to give up their retirement security? That’s just not right. It’s time for Varga to stop the political games, and focus on making Grand Rapids a place that creates opportunity for all. He can make it happen by reaching a fair contract with members of ATU Local 836.”
A copy of the Michigan AFL-CIO’s petition can be viewed here.
# # #
