MARYLAND TEAMSTERS RALLY FOR STRONG FIRST CONTRACT AT ZUM

300 Bus Workers Demand Fair Wages Amid Contract Negotiations

JESSUP, Md., Sept. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Teamsters Local 570 members at Zum Transportation in Jessup rallied today to show a unified front and their readiness to secure a strong first contract. The group consists of more than 300 bus drivers, van drivers, trainers, and attendants who provide student transportation for Howard County Public Schools.

"Our members at Zum are essential workers — they transport this community's children day in and day out, ensuring their safety and well-being," said Sean Cedenio, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 570. "It's time for Zum to show their appreciation for these workers by offering a fair and timely first contract. Howard County leadership needs to do their part and ensure that this contract gets done and workers are paid their fair share."

Earlier this year, the group voted by a four-to-one margin to join the Teamsters in order to fight for a contract that reflects the work that they put into their community and gives them the respect they've more than earned.

"We deserve a living wage. We work full-time hours and only get part-time pay," said Tanyia Watts, a member of the bargaining committee. "We love our jobs and the kids we drive, but the wages are insufficient and it's time for Zum to pay us what we deserve."

Wages remain one of the key outstanding issues in contract negotiations, while the employer has agreed to back pay that will be retroactive to the first day of the 2025-2026 school year once the contract has been ratified. Local 570 met with Zum last week and has proposed additional bargaining dates in September.

Teamsters Local 570 represents workers in a wide variety of industries throughout Baltimore and the surrounding communities. For more information, visit team570.org.

Contact:  
Lena Melentijevic, (347) 208-2279
[email protected]

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SOURCE Teamsters Local 570