VTA Strike Enters Third Week as Union Rejects Latest Contract Offer

Santa Clara County transit services remain halted as negotiations stall over wages, new contract terms, and union demands for workplace protections.

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) has increased its wage offer to an 11% raise over three years, but the union has criticized it as insufficient and postponed a vote on the proposal.
Negotiations remain deadlocked, with the union opposing new terms introduced by the VTA, including changes to attendance policies and overtime rules, which were not previously discussed.
The strike, which began on March 10, has disrupted bus and light rail services for approximately 100,000 daily riders, leaving only paratransit services operational.
Union leaders have highlighted unresolved issues such as wage disparities, workplace safety, and guarantees against retaliation for striking workers.
The VTA has expressed concerns about the financial strain of meeting union demands, stating that budget adjustments may be necessary to maintain service and fiscal responsibility.