(MACON, GEORGIA) – The United Steelworkers (USW) have announced that more than 1,500 Members employed at Blue Bird Corporation’s Fort Valley, Georgia Facility have overwhelmingly ratified a first Union contract that provides significant wage improvements, promotes respect on the job, institutes a profit-sharing system and secures vital health and safety provisions.

Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su today released the following statement on news of the agreement between the USW and Blue Bird, one of the Nation’s leading manufacturers of low- and zero-emission school buses: “Congratulations to the United Steelworkers and Blue Bird on their dedication and perseverance in achieving a first contract.  As President Biden and I have said, collective bargaining works.  This agreement is proof-positive that when Workers and employers sit down at the bargaining table together, they can come to a deal that achieves stability for the employer and better and safer conditions for their Workers.  Far too often, employers engage in harmful stall tactics to undercut Worker voice and avoid entering into a first contract with a newly formed Union.  This historic agreement is an example of collective bargaining done right.  I applaud the United Steelworkers and Blue Bird for demonstrating the power and benefits of Worker voice.  I also want to recognize both parties for their leadership, reinforcing that the EV transition and good Union jobs go together.  Through these negotiations, the United Steelworkers and Blue Bird are charting a future where Union Workers, high-road businesses and clean energy keep our country running.  This progress will benefit their Workers, their company and our country.”

While the three-year deal will provide all Workers with at least 12% in raises, some of the lowest paid will see increases of more than 40%.

The contract also delivers needed retirement security with the establishment of a Defined Contribution Plan, as well as a platform for Workers to address concerns regarding Civil Rights, health insurance costs, public policy, creation of new jobs and more.

“Workers at Blue Bird organized because they needed a voice on the job,” said USW District 9 Director Dan Flippo, who represents Workers in Georgia and six other Southern States. “Thanks to their solidarity and hard work, they made significant gains that will benefit them now and lay a firm foundation for further progress well into the future.”

Blue Bird Workers make school buses, including low-emission and zero-emission models, and the company has been approved to receive significant funding through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program.

Said Flippo: “Federal investments like these must come with a seat at the table for Workers.  Our Union has a long history in the South fighting for better wages and working conditions in a variety of industries, but for too long, corporations and their political cronies have tried to characterize the South as a place where they could run away from Unions, cut corners and pay Workers less.  Workers at Blue Bird are helping to change the narrative.  All Workers deserve fair treatment.  A Union contract like the one at Blue Bird is the best way to seize that future.” 

The USW represents 850,000 Workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of Workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations. 

To Directly Access The Majority Of This Labor News Story, Go To: Blue Bird Workers Ratify First Contract as USW Members | United Steelworkers