VTA union to vote on contract proposal Saturday

San Jose's Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) workers are preparing to vote on a new contract proposal after nearly two weeks of striking. The strike began on March 10 when negotiations broke down over pay raises and arbitration terms. The new proposal includes a 10.5% pay increase spread over three years. Employees would receive a 4% raise in the first year, followed by a 3% raise in the second year and a 3.5% raise in the third year. The proposal also addresses the union's concerns about arbitration language, which has been a major point of contention. In addition to raises, the VTA's proposal promises enhanced dental coverage. The agency will continue to cover healthcare costs for 93% of union workers and provide pension and medical care for retirees. The union plans to vote on the proposal this Saturday. If the members approve it, the VTA board will then also need to vote on it. Workers might return to their jobs before the board's approval, depending on union leadership's decision. The VTA emphasized that they want to see workers back on the job and noted that the proposed raise would keep the union among the best-paid in the Bay Area. Union leaders have not commented immediately on the new proposal.