Trash is piling high in cities across the U.S. as collections were disrupted by a workers’ strike demanding better pay and benefits. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Over 400 Republic Services workers in Massachusetts began a strike on Tuesday, disrupting trash collection in at least 14 cities and towns.
The workers, represented by Teamsters Local 25, are demanding better pay and benefits amid ongoing contract disputes.
Teamsters Local 25 stated that hundreds of additional Teamsters nationwide are experiencing similar contract issues and may also go on strike.
Republic Services expressed disappointment over the work stoppage, noting it had planned for the possibility and is using employees from other areas to maintain service.
This strike is part of a larger trend, with a significant workers' strike also underway in Philadelphia involving trash collectors, leading to overflowing refuse.