Toll Group Drivers File with NLRB

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Truck drivers at logistics firm Toll Group Inc. in San Pedro have filed for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board, the latest action in a months-long dispute between the drivers and the Australian company.

The drivers have complained of poor working conditions, including a lack of access to restrooms and drinking water. They are seeking to join the Teamsters union, which has used the battle at Toll to increase its visibility at the ports.

Drivers and Teamsters officials said about 80 percent of Toll’s 75 local drivers called for the election. A date for the election has not been set.

Nick Weiner, the Teamstes’ port campaign director, said he believes Toll will try to delay a vote and intimidate workers. Toll representatives have said they have no problem with the organizing efforts.

The union has long sought to organize port truck drivers, the vast majority of whom cannot join unions because they are classified as independent contractors who own or lease their own trucks.