The Union Contract

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Your boss's promises are temporary, a union contract is guaranteed. 

Teamsters are covered by a union contract with the employer. Since every workplace and working conditions are slightly different, union contracts are tailored for each industry, shop, factory or other workplace. However, some basic things are the same. Contracts cover such rights and benefits as:

• Wage levels and pay raises
• Hours & Overtime defined
• Work breaks defined
• Health care coverage
• Job security
• Seniority
• Promotions
• Paid time off for vacations and holidays
• Retirement and Pension benefits
• Rules about how you must be treated on the job

Your contract is negotiated with management by your co-workers and Teamster leaders. Every member has the right to make suggestions and vote on the final agreement.
To win a good contract, workers must show management that they are united in support of their negotiating team. Sometimes workers have to get support from other unions, community groups, public officials, consumers, or other organizations to convince management to reach a reasonable agreement.
The rights and benefits in the contract are guaranteed. Management cannot legally change them without negotiating with the union.