Today, the Ramsey County District Court Judge granted the Tri-Council’s (IUOE Local 49, Teamsters Local 120, and Laborers Local 363) request for a temporary restraining order. This ruling has now temporarily halted the city of St. Paul from implementing its COVID-19 vaccine mandate before either the negotiation process has been followed through to completion, mediation has been utilized, or a final binding decision from an arbitrator has been made.
Local 49 is pleased that the court has ruled in our favor and upheld the bedrock principles of labor law, which guarantees our members meaningful negotiation and bargaining, a fair process to resolve disputes, and the freedom to choose when it comes to their health.
Local 49 will follow the court’s recommendation that Local 49 and the city resume negotiations or submit the matter to mediation or binding interest arbitration.
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George released the following statement:
“Our goal as an organization is, and has been, to stand up for our members and make their voices heard, and with this ruling, it is evident that those voices were heard loud and clear. We will adhere to the court’s ruling and continue to work with the city of St. Paul to come to an agreement that is beneficial for our members and the public’s safety.”
