The workers asked if Austin's pet was alive! Management voluntarily recognizes them and begins the collective bargaining process.
AUSTIN, Texas — Employees of Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) have begun the process to become the largest animal protection organization in the United States
On Thursday, animal shelter employees filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board asking for recognition of their union, Austin Pet Allied Workers.
Apa! Employees said they gathered signatures on union cards from a majority of the roughly 200 employees to take the historic step.
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“I look forward to this new chapter where my colleagues and I can have a real seat at the table and build a more democratic workplace,” APA! worker Elise Avallone said in a statement. “We hope that APA management and the Board of Directors will respond positively to our request for voluntary approval so that we can get to the negotiating table quickly and directly.”
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Unions expect contract negotiations to address issues such as animal and employee welfare and safety, wage increases, benefits and workplace policies centered on fair employment practices.
Austin City Council member Zo Kadri praised the workers' movement for “not only coming together in defense of animals, but coming together for our fellow workers.”
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