ABF Freight Teamsters Reject Plan to Protect Jobs, Benefits

Plan Would Have Reduced Gross Wages and Mileage Rates By 15 Percent

Teamsters employed at ABF Freight System have rejected a Wage Reduction-Job Security plan aimed at protecting the jobs of more than 7,000 workers and securing their health, welfare and pension benefits for the remainder of the National Master Freight Agreement.

Mail ballots were sent out April 30 and counted today with the process being overseen by an independent election officer. With a final count of 3764-2936, the workers voted no on the plan with about 80 percent of the members affected participating in the vote. The plan had called for a reduction in gross wages and mileage rates of 15 percent effective next pay period and running through March 31, 2013. Negotiated wage increases (less 15 percent) and cost of living adjustments, if any, would have remained in effect for the life the plan.

"We took a proactive approach to help ABF get through the worst economic recession since the Great Depression, but our members have rejected the plan," said Tyson Johnson, Director of the Teamsters National Freight Division. "The union will regroup to determine if there are other means to protect jobs and benefits. Our first priority continues to be the members' best interests."

Ballots were sent out to about 7,000 active employees and about 1,000 workers with recall rights. More than 6,500 employees cast ballots.