VTA Workers Reject Contract as Strike Enters Third Week

San Jose, California — Members of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265 overwhelmingly rejected the Valley Transportation Authority‘s latest contract offer Monday, continuing a strike that has disrupted bus and light rail services for tens of thousands of commuters since March 10.

In a vote held at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 83% of union members, which includes more than 1,500 frontline VTA workers, opposed the proposal, according to ATU Local 265 President Raj Singh. The contract included a wage increase and updates to the conflict resolution process but also introduced amendments to previously untouched parts of the agreement.

“The fact that they’re bringing items back to the conversation that were removed proves they’re the ones trying to stall this conversation,” said Singh during a news conference after the vote.

The strike has resulted in significant hardships for commuters, with many resorting to walking for miles or using ride-sharing services. VTA Board Chair and Campbell Mayor, Rebecca Lopez, expressed concern about the financial strain on the agency, noting that they are losing $70,000 daily in fares due to the ongoing strike.

The proposed contract from VTA included an 11% wage increase over three years, structured as 4% in the first two years and 3% in the final year. Changes to the grievance process were part of the proposal, streamlining worker complaints before they escalate to a neutral arbitrator. However, adjustments to the overtime policy raised alarm among union members.

“This proposal represents a fair deal to workers, but I also want to be clear that it comes at a cost, and VTA will have to carefully work within our limits to protect service to our customers,” Lopez stated.

After the rejection, VTA reiterated its position that the contract offer was fair and urged the ATU to return to negotiations. The agency emphasized their commitment to providing competitive pay and benefits.

Singh described the latest offer as a step backward from previous negotiations, emphasizing the need for fair terms without newly imposed conditions. “Any new terms have to be negotiated, so introducing new terms in an offer only delays the workers’ return,” he said.

The South Bay Labor Council is planning a rally on Tuesday at San Jose City Hall, calling for VTA to negotiate earnestly. Councilmember Domingo Candelas and Councilmember Peter Ortiz are expected to attend the event to show solidarity with the union.

Singh also highlighted the implications of the continued strike on workers’ rights and job security. He advocated for an agreement ensuring that striking employees will not face disciplinary measures upon their return to work. VTA has filed a legal complaint claiming a breach of contract, with the first hearing set for Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.

The VTA and ATU Local 265 have been in negotiations since last August, but mounting tensions have resulted in this ongoing labor dispute. Daily ridership prior to the strike was approximately 100,000 passengers.

As both sides prepare for the upcoming court date, commuters remain anxious for a resolution that will restore critical transit services in the region.