Victory in Houstom

After three weeks on strike, what may be a landmark win for working people in the Southern US. Don't mess with Texas.

Higher Wages. Janitors will see their wages rise by 126 percent over the course
of the contract-with an immediate 21% increase on January 1. Janitors pay will
increase to $6.25 an hour on January 1, 2007, $7.25 an hour on January 1, 2008,
and $7.75 by January 1, 2009.
More Hours. The new contract will increase
work hours for janitors currently provided with only 4 hours of work a night to
six hours a shift in two years. The additional hours and the wage increase mean
that janitors who make $5.15 an hour will see their income more than double by
the end of 2008.
Quality, Affordable Health Insurance. At a time when many
employers are shifting health care costs on to workers, Houston janitors won
individual health insurance at a cost of only $20 per month. Family insurance
will also be available for a cost of $175 a month. The health insurance will
become available starting January 1, 2009.
Paid Holidays and Vacation Time.
The contract will allow workers-many for the first time in their lives-paid time
off from work. Janitors will receive six paid holidays per year and be able to
accrue paid vacation time beginning the first year of the contract.