Important article on the ongoing struggle by independent truck drivers in California, protesting AB5. While many dockworkers support the truck drivers struggle, the ILWU, which is keeping dockworkers on the job without a contract as it negotiates behind the scenes with the PMA and Biden admin, is terrified of unified strike action between the truck drivers and port workers.
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A trucker with two years of experience spoke with the World Socialist Web Site on conditions. “AB5 is going to put a lot of us out of business. We have spent a lot of money for this job, and it is like we are just going to throw that into the garbage and be forced to become drivers for major businesses.
“Before AB5, we had high diesel costs, issues of emissions, and buying new trucks. California has a lot of requirements, and it is already the worst state to be a trucker in with the 55 mile per hour speed limit.
“We pay chassis companies up to $20,000. And if I have a code for one company, say CMA but there are no CMA containers available, I am waiting with an empty container and paying hundreds of dollars a day. The customer will eventually reimburse, but we are paying upfront. If there are yard problems, we are paying $400 to $600 a month.”
Another trucker spoke with the WSWS and explained why he joined the protests. “They are trying to ruin us with AB5. It will impact all of us.”
He continued by explaining the sacrifices made to become an owner/operator. “Well, the truck itself could be $200,000, and before you can get your own truck, you have to get your commercial license which is a 3- to 6-month course, and then you have to get work experience for a few years first.”
An owner-operator who has worked since 2002 said, “AB5 will kick me out, and the big businesses will move in. I can’t compete as one guy, and they can communicate with the ports better. English is my second language so there is a barrier.”