Protest Over Shuttle Driver Firings Set for Today in Baltimore

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)Members of UFCW Local 1994 and Baltimore-based "We Deserve Better Workers Assembly" will protest Veolia Corp.'s firing of two of its Super Shuttle drivers and the drivers' horrific working conditions today at 3p at Veolia's Corporate Headquarters in Baltimore. The groups are also rallying to bring attention to Veolia's system of what they characterize as "indentured servitude." The company charges its employees $35,000 for a "franchise" but then charges them weekly fees for equipment, services and other items even if the driver isn't working. “Drivers often have to work 17-18 hours a day and still end their work week with a negative paycheck,” says Local 1994. In claiming these drivers are franchisees, Veolia avoids paying disability insurance, taxes and social security on these workers, yet Veolia fired two of its drivers following a protest at BWI, claiming that the drivers participated in an "illegal action," notes the union. The drivers are attempting to gain union representation with Local 1994. photo of 11/7/2013 BWI action by Chris Garlock