Today, Quentin Anthony Anderson, candidate for Louisiana State Senate District 14, issued a strong statement of support for the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) bus operators, who have overwhelmingly voted to strike after stalled contract negotiations.
“Ninety-one percent of these essential workers have made it clear: they deserve better wages, better working conditions, and better respect,” said Anderson. “For too long, the frontline workers who keep our city moving have been ignored. They’re asking for wages in line with other transit systems in the state, and they’re demanding a safer work environment. These are not unreasonable requests—they are basic rights. I stand in full solidarity with the CATS bus operators and the Amalgamated Transit Union in their fight for dignity and fair pay.”
CATS bus operators currently start at $18 an hour, topping out at just over $27, lagging behind transit workers in other Louisiana cities who earn $4 to $5 more per hour. Meanwhile, transit workers have raised concerns about financial mismanagement and worsening working conditions.
Anderson made it clear that this crisis is a symptom of a larger failure: Baton Rouge’s long-neglected transit system.
“This isn’t just about a contract—it’s about how we treat public transit in this city,” Anderson continued. “A system that underpays and endangers its workers cannot serve the public effectively. We need to stop treating public transit like an afterthought and start investing in a world-class system that takes care of both its riders and its workforce.”
As part of his campaign for State Senate, Anderson has laid out a vision for a robust, modernized public transit system that includes:
- Competitive Wages for Operators – Raising pay to match regional and national standards to attract and retain quality drivers.
- Enhanced Safety Measures – Better protections for transit workers and passengers, including improved security measures.
- Investment in Training – Ensuring that operators receive top-tier training and career development opportunities.
- Updated, Reliable Equipment – Modernizing the CATS fleet with safer, more energy-efficient buses and better maintenance practices.
- Expanding Access – Strengthening transit routes and frequency to ensure that public transportation is a viable option for all residents.
“The people who drive our buses and keep our city moving deserve respect, not just words of appreciation, but real, tangible investment0-,” Anderson concluded. “If we want a Baton Rouge that works for everyone, we need a transit system that works for everyone—riders and workers alike. That starts with supporting these workers and ensuring they get a fair contract. And it continues with bold leadership that will finally prioritize modern, safe, and reliable public transportation.”
Read the full statement below:
For Immediate Release - Anderson Supports CATS WorkersNinety-one percent of these essential workers have made it clear: they deserve better wages, better working conditions, and better respect. For too long, the frontline workers who keep our city moving have been ignored. They’re asking for wages in line with other transit systems in the state, and they’re demanding a safer work environment. These are not unreasonable requests—they are basic rights. I stand in full solidarity with the CATS bus operators and the Amalgamated Transit Union in their fight for dignity and fair pay.
CATS bus operators are currently working without a contract, making up to $5 per hour less than their counterparts in other Louisiana transit systems. At the same time, many of these workers have raised serious concerns about financial mismanagement and deteriorating safety conditions. These workers have gone above and beyond to keep our city running, and now they are being forced to fight just to receive the respect and fair treatment they deserve.
This isn’t just about a contract — it’s about how we treat public transit in this city. A system that underpays and endangers its workers cannot serve the public effectively. We need to stop treating public transit like an afterthought and start investing in a world-class system that takes care of both its riders and its workforce.
Public transit is the backbone of a thriving city. A strong system ensures that residents can get to work, school, and essential services without barriers. But none of that is possible without a workforce that is supported, protected, and fairly compensated. That is why I am committed to a public transit plan that includes:
- Higher wages for operators that match regional and national standards, ensuring we recruit and retain the best workforce.
- Stronger safety protections for transit employees and passengers, so workers can do their jobs without fear.
- Expanded training and career development to invest in the next generation of transit professionals.
- A modernized fleet with reliable, safe, and energy-efficient buses that improve service for both workers and riders.
- Increased route coverage and frequency to make public transit a truly viable transportation option for more Baton Rouge residents.
The people who drive our buses and keep our city moving deserve respect, not just words of appreciation, but real, tangible investment. If we want a Baton Rouge that works for everyone, we need a transit system that works for everyone — riders and workers alike. That starts with supporting these workers and ensuring they get a fair contract. And it continues with bold leadership that will finally prioritize modern, safe, and reliable public transportation.
I urge CATS leadership to return to the negotiating table in good faith and meet the demands of these workers. As your next state senator, I will not only stand with workers in moments like this — I will fight to build a transit system that respects them every single day.