Big Win at Big Bus

JANUARY 17 -- Drivers and Tour Guides at Big Bus New York, represented by TWU Local 100, voted decisively to approve their first contract with their employer. The vote was 114 to 13 -- an approval percentage of 90%. The new contract covers approximately 200 Drivers and Tour Guides. It provides for immediate raises for every member of between $4 and $1 per hour, depending on time in service. Members with at least two years of service go from $18 per hour to $22 per hour -- an increase of 19%. The contract includes improvements in medical insurance, a 25% matching 401 (k) after five years of service, more paid time off, and two new additional holidays for all employees. It provides for picks based on seniority. In perhaps the biggest win for our Drivers and Tour Guides, the agreement puts in place full due process discipline and grievance rights. Now, under a union contract, Big Bus Drivers and Tour Guides are no longer "at will" employees. Local 100 President Tony Utano called the contract vote "a big win for big bus, and for the tens of thousands of tourists who rely on the professionalism of our Drivers and Tour Guides." Big Bus has consistently high ratings among consumers, with 54% rating the service as "excellent" on Trip Advisor.

Photo at left shows our negotiating committee with President Utano. At right is Division Chair Carlos Bernabel. The Committee was led by TWU Local 100 Director of Organizing Frank McCann.