Toledo-area representatives call on Stericycle to keep negotiating with striking workers
State Reps. Lisa Sobecki (D-Toledo), Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo), and Mike Sheehy (D-Oregon) yesterday sent a letter to Stericycle President and CEO Cindy J. Miller encouraging Stericycle to keep negotiating with employees of the Stericycle Toledo Facility who have been on strike since early October.
“As a former Union Chapter Chair, I know that strikes are often the last resort and are a decision not made lightly,” said Rep. Sobecki. “I’ve visited the picket line on several occasions, and I stand with the men and women on strike. I urge Stericycle to continue to act in good faith and work towards an amicable solution.”
“It is a shame that essential workers who kept this company, a medical waste removal company, operating during the pandemic are now asked to pay more money for health insurance premiums, co-pays and increases in prescription drugs. This is not a good example of supporting essential workers,” said Rep. Hicks-Hudson.
“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, these negotiations are a concrete way for Stericycle to show their appreciation for their workers. I am urging Stericycle leadership to continue conversations with the striking workers’ bargaining unit to ensure that employees have access to affordable healthcare,” said Rep. Sheehy.
In the letter, the Representatives acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic created challenges for both the Stericycle Management and the employees, and called on Stericycle to continue to negotiate in good faith to find a path forward to address the concerns of the workers on strike, including the sharp increase in healthcare costs.