JTRAN strikes ends after 39 days

• The union representing the JTRAN drivers said the new contract meets its demands for fair pay, better working conditions, and strong benefits.

The City of Jackson announced Thursday that MV Transportation and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1208-Jackson, the union representing JTRAN drivers, have reached a deal to end a 39-day strike.

JTRAN is the public transit service for the capital city.

Jackson Mayor John Horn (D) praised the new agreement, saying that it benefits both drivers and Jackson residents.

“Our drivers play an essential role in getting people to work, school, medical appointments, grocery stores, and other important destinations. They deserve to be treated with respect and to have a safe workplace,” Horhn said. “My priority throughout this process has been making sure Jackson residents have access to safe, reliable transportation delivered by well-qualified, professional drivers who serve the best interests of the public.”

The union said the new contract meets its demands for fair pay, better working conditions, and strong benefits.

“This strike shows that our members are willing to lay it all on the line for justice,” Local 1208 President Charles Tornes, Jr. said. “I want to thank our riders, and all our allies for coming out and standing with us.”

The union’s concerns largely stemmed from contractor MV Transportation, which the union accused of “unlawfully” monitoring workers and unilaterally changing work rules to retaliate against employees.

In a statement before the deal was reached, MV Transportation accused union leadership of “bad faith bargaining” that cost union members thousands of dollars in proposed wage increases.

This is the second time in less than two years that JTRAN workers have been on strike. The last strike was in September 2024 and lasted 14 days.

The city thanked JTRAN drivers, union leadership, and MV Transit for their efforts to reach a resolution.