Teamsters Local 396 Ignites Historic Campaign for 2026 Sanitation Contract: A Fight for Essential Workers' Future!

In a bold and proactive move, Teamsters Local 396 has officially ignited its comprehensive 2026 Sanitation Contract Campaign, signaling a powerful stand for the dedicated men and women who keep Southern California clean and healthy. This isn't just a negotiation; it's a rallying cry for justice, respect, and improved livelihoods for the region's indispensable waste and recycling workers.

While 2026 might seem distant, Local 396's leadership understands that securing a truly transformative contract requires foresight, unwavering commitment, and robust mobilization.

By launching this campaign years in advance, the union is laying the groundwork for a negotiation that will fundamentally uplift the lives of its members, ensuring they receive the wages, benefits, and working conditions they so rightfully deserve for their dangerous and vital work.

These essential workers are the backbone of our communities, tirelessly collecting refuse, operating heavy machinery, and maintaining our sanitation infrastructure, often under challenging conditions.

Their contributions are fundamental to public health and environmental well-being, yet their critical role is frequently undervalued. This campaign aims to change that narrative, demanding recognition and fair compensation that reflects the true value of their labor.

The objectives of the 2026 campaign are clear and resolute: secure substantial wage increases that keep pace with the rising cost of living, strengthen healthcare and retirement benefits, enhance safety protocols, and enshrine stronger job protections.

Teamsters Local 396 is committed to ensuring that every waste and recycling worker has a secure future, free from economic anxiety, and equipped with the best possible resources to perform their demanding jobs safely and effectively.

This campaign is more than just about a contract; it's about building power and solidarity.

Local 396 plans to engage extensively with its members, empowering them to become active participants in shaping their future. Through town halls, educational initiatives, and community outreach, the union will galvanize support not only from its ranks but also from the public, highlighting the indispensable service these workers provide and the urgency of their cause.

The launch of the 2026 Sanitation Contract Campaign marks a pivotal moment for Teamsters Local 396.

It's a declaration that the union is ready to fight fiercely for its members, ensuring that the next contract reflects the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of Southern California's waste and recycling heroes. The message is clear: the time for fair treatment and genuine respect for essential workers is now, and Teamsters Local 396 will lead the charge until victory is achieved.