DC security officers reach tentative agreement

DC commercial security officers have secured a tentative, four-year agreement with the city’s largest security contractors—affecting 3,000 commercial security officers who belong to 32BJ SEIU —that includes fair wage increases and maintains benefits at their current level. “We put our lives on the line every day. This contract recognizes our hard work and will allow us to keep with us with the cost of living in DC,” said Krystal Coleman, a security officer and 32BJ SEIU bargaining committee member. Click below to read more
photo: 32BJ Security bargaining team cheers agreement

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Negotiations for a new union contract covering 3,000 private security officers began in February between 32BJ SEIU and private security contractors including Admiral, Allied Barton, Securitas, G4S and Universal. By the end of the new contract, most 32BJ security officers will earn at least $17.54 an hour. The agreement—subject to ratification by the security officers—also  maintains current employer-paid healthcare, improves working conditions and job protections, and provides an increase in retirement benefits.
“With security concerns growing in the District, it’s more important than ever that security officers earn a living wage to ensure that the security industry is professional and prepared to handle emergencies. With this contract, the men and women who secure the nation’s capital will be able to support their families and their communities,” said Jaime Contreras, Vice President of 32BJ SEIU.“This contract is a win for the entire city.”
The victory for security officers is part of a wave of recent efforts to improve the lives of D.C’s low-wage workers including a $15 an hour minimum wage slated to appear on the November ballot, paid family leave which is under consideration by Council, and a pending bill in Council to grant full-time hours to thousands of low-wage janitors.
NOTE: This story has been updated with additional information and quotes since our original post