New Orleans Sanitation Workers Protesting

WDSU 6 News recently reported that several New Orleans sanitation workers are on strike.

The workers, known as hoppers who work with the sanitation department through a group called PeopleReady, are demanding better pay and better protection while picking up trash.

The workers have said that they are exposed to the coronavirus and other health hazards every day and are not given the proper protective equipment. The workers also said that they should be getting hazard pay. 

Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued the following statement: 

"The City of New Orleans is committed to following the requirements of its contract with Metro Services. Under the terms of the contract, Metro Services was paid more than $10.7M in 2019 to provide garbage and recycling collections in their service area. Metro is responsible for providing workers with the necessary items for their safety. This would include masks, gloves, etc.“

Source: WDSU 6 News