Dive Brief:

• Teamsters in Mobile, AL performed a test run called a “Just Practicing” picket in response to Republic Services’ proposal to implement changes to health insurance policies for its employees.
• A press release issued by the Teamsters states that workers, Teamsters from other job sites and various community members were present at the pseudo picket line. 
• According to a Teamster-issued statement, Republic should not alter its position regarding worker benefits; Republic maintains it should be able to change employee health care plans at any time. The Teamsters view the health care options available to workers as unaffordable.

Dive Insight:

Negotiations between Republic and Teamster members will get underway on Friday, June 27. The practice run was a way to put pressure on executives in Republic before the negotiation begin. 

Strikes can have significant influence on Republic's policies. In January 2013, Republic employees in Memphis, TN went on strike to protest cutbacks on pensions and benefits. Employees returned to work following two weeks of striking after both sides agreed to the terms established in a five-year contract.