IBT Locals and Joint Councils - General

LOCAL UNIONS There are hundreds of Teamsters local unions across North America. The local unions and their members are the heart and backbone of the union. Unlike other labor unions, the Teamsters Union is structured to promote strong local unions, and strong local leaders. Since the locals negotiate most Teamsters contracts and provide most of the services to the members, they keep most of the dues money. Locals retain their own labor lawyers, certified public accountants, full-time business agents, organizers, and clerical staff. The members of each local elect their own officers, devise their own structure, and vote on their own bylaws, compatible with the International Constitution and Bylaws. While enjoying their independence, the locals benefit from the expertise and assistance of the International Union, and of the various conferences and councils in the union’s structure. JOINT COUNCILS Teamsters Joint Councils are set up in areas with three or more local unions. Joint Councils help coordinate Teamsters activities in those areas. They also help solve problems and decide some jurisdictional and judicial matters.