Bus drivers strike again in Jackson, Mississippi

JACKSON, Miss.—For the second time in three years, the 60-plus bus drivers in Jackson, Miss., members of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1208, have been forced to strike.

The workers walked out starting at 4 a.m. on July 13 after fruitless talks since December with MV Transportation, the Texas-based private contractor which runs the city’s bus system.

In response, news reports said, MV switched to smaller vehicles, waived the requirement that drivers it imports—from out of state—have Commercial Drivers Licenses, and eliminated Saturday service.

Key issues in this strike, like the two-week walkout in September 2024, are low pay, lack of respect, and this time, MV’s refusal to bargain in good faith. As a result, the union local charged MV with unfair labor practices.

“It’s déjà vu in Jackson, Miss.,” said Amalgamated Transit Union President John Costa, who flew into town to walk the picket line with his members.

“We know MV Transportation and its anti-union tactics well. Once again, they have shown that all they care about is making a profit on the backs of workers.

“Our members are on strike because MV Transportation refuses to treat them fairly and continues to engage in unlawful activities,” said Costa. “They are paying inexperienced scabs $50 per hour to drive buses, threatening safety and service. Why not come to the table to get this deal done to end the strike now? Until then, we will hold the line just like we did in 2024.”

The Jackson Clarion-Ledger reported Mayor John Horhn is urging both MV and the union to return to talks and has offered to bring in a federal mediator. Members of other Mississippi union locals joined ATU Local 1208 members on the picket lines.

“These are workers who keep Jackson moving,” the local’s allies posted on social media. “Every route. Every stop. Every rider who depends on the bus.

“This isn’t workers versus riders. It’s workers fighting for their community. Because they ARE the community. We will stand with Local 1208 until MV Transportation comes to the table and gets this done. #OurVoiceOurPower.”

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