New York Faces Possible Strike as 34,000 Doormen Prepare for Labor Action
New York City residents have been warned of a potential strike next month involving thousands of building workers, as negotiations continue over a new labor contract between a workers’ union and a building owners’ advisory board.
The current four-year agreement, which covers approximately 34,000 doormen, porters, and maintenance staff across the city’s five boroughs, is set to expire on April 20. If no new deal is reached, a strike could begin as early as April 21, potentially disrupting services in around 3,500 co-ops, condos, and apartment buildings.
Building owners have already begun informing residents about possible impacts. In the event of a strike, residents may be required to wear identification badges to enter buildings, non-essential repair work could be halted, and movement of goods in and out of buildings may be restricted.
The Realty Advisory Board on Labor Relations (RAB) has expressed concerns that the dispute could affect nearly one million rent-stabilized apartments, warning of broader financial pressure on the housing sector. The dispute comes at a time when New York’s rental market is already under strain.
According to recent statements, RAB has proposed that workers contribute to health insurance premiums and has suggested creating a “Tier-2” classification for newly hired employees. However, the union representing the workers, Local 32BJ SEIU, has strongly criticized the proposal, calling it “offensive” and arguing that it would create lower-paid workers with fewer benefits compared to their peers.
Union president Manny Pastreich said members are fighting for fair wages and dignified working conditions, noting that essential workers have continued performing duties through extreme weather events and crises.
While both sides have not disclosed specific wage demands, the union is seeking full employer-paid health benefits, wage increases aligned with inflation, improved pension plans, paid leave, and better working conditions. The two parties are expected to resume negotiations on March 30.
A similar dispute in 2022 was resolved before a strike occurred, resulting in a four-year agreement that included annual wage increases of about 3% and a one-time bonus of $3,000.
