DC Security Officers Win First Contracts

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)
District security officers have won union contracts after years of organizing, lobbying, and direct action. The contracts provide "significant wage gains to help these brave men and women better support their families and their communities," said SEIU Local 32BJ Vice President Valarie Long. "Furthermore, raising standards in the security industry translates into safer tenants, safer buildings and a safer city." Highlights of the contracts - affecting nearly 1,500 Admiral Security, AlliedBarton, Guardsmark, and Securitas workers - include 30% increases in wages and benefits, employer-paid health care coverage for all full-time workers, with increased coverage for part-time officers, and seven personal/sick days. The contracts also set minimum wages for DC officers at $12.40 per hour. "This pay raise will help me make a better life for my children," said Raquel Mack (far left in photo), an AlliedBarton officer. "I can finally afford to buy medicine when I get sick."