Mayor Eric Adams and Schools Chancellor David Banks unveiled the NYC administration's strategy on Monday as the city could potentially face a school bus driver strike that would impact over 80,000 students. Dialogues continue between the city, bus companies under contract, and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1181 which authorized a strike during the summer if no deal is reached.
This looming strike, which might occur as school resumes in just over a week, would impact around half of the city’s school bus drivers and attendants. In response, city officials have outlined contingency plans, such as emergency MetroCards, transport reimbursements, and in some cases, free rideshare services.
Adams, asserting the city's priority, stated, "Ensuring our students can continue to go to school and learn every day is our top priority.” He emphasized how both parents and working families across the city should not have to worry about getting their children to school every day.
The anticipated strike would disrupt approximately 4,400 routes across all five boroughs, affecting some students more than others. Data shows that around 25,000 students on these routes have special educational needs, while homeless families and migrant children also qualify for busing irrespective of age regulations.
Schools Chancellor David Banks highlighted that this labor dispute would have significant implications for some of the city's most vulnerable student populations. “We anticipate and hope for a similar constructive approach with our bus companies and their employees,” he added.
Tomas Fret, the President of ATU, highlighted the long-standing shortage of school bus workers, indicating that these individuals “simply cannot make ends meet.” Fret remains open to negotiations for a reasonable contract that meets the needs of his members.
The city's contingency plan includes offering all impacted families Emergency MetroCards, valid on MTA buses and subways but excluding Express Bus service. A provision has been made for some families to be reimbursed for alternatives like taxis and personal vehicles. The city is also facilitating rideshare services accompanied by a parent or guardian, which could potentially help working families.
Chancellor David Banks hopes for a resolution before the school year commences, a solution that is both fair to the workers and responsible for the city, stating “In the meantime, we are working hard to plan for every alternative transportation service we will provide if a strike is called, and make families aware.”
Despite all this, it remains uncertain how these services will be effectively distributed and if they will accommodate certain groups such as asylum seekers.
