Report reveals job inequities in Inland Empire's transportation and logistics sector

The City Council Special Meeting held on December 16, 2024, in Hemet, Riverside County, focused on the pressing issues within the transportation, distribution, and logistics (TDL) sector, which has seen significant growth in recent years. The meeting highlighted the sector's role as the second-largest employer in the Inland Empire (IE), accounting for 13% of all jobs during the 2021-2022 period.

Council members discussed the anticipated job growth over the next decade, particularly for heavy tractor-trailer truck drivers and warehouse laborers. The meeting emphasized the predominance of blue-collar occupations in warehouses, including packers, loaders, and truck drivers. Notably, the discussions revealed a concerning trend: Black and Latino workers are overrepresented in these lower-paying jobs while being underrepresented in supervisory and managerial positions.

The council reviewed data indicating that most workers in the TDL sector do not earn a living wage, with only transportation, storage, and distribution managers meeting this standard. The median income for truck drivers and sales workers was higher than that of other blue-collar occupations, yet many workers still struggle financially, often left with minimal funds after paying rent.

The meeting also addressed the disproportionate impact of warehouse locations on low-income communities of color. In Riverside County, 61% of Latino residents live within 300 feet of a warehouse, despite making up only 46% of the population. This proximity to distribution centers correlates with higher risks of health issues, such as asthma and cancer, due to increased air pollution.

Council members discussed the findings from 32 in-depth interviews with TDL workers, which revealed widespread concerns about job security, working conditions, and the quality of employment. Many workers reported feeling pressured to prove their worth, especially seasonal employees who often receive limited benefits. Truck drivers frequently face misclassification as independent contractors, leading to lower compensation and fewer labor rights.

The meeting concluded with a call for community-focused solutions, including community benefit agreements and high road training partnerships. These initiatives aim to ensure that workers have access to well-paying jobs, retirement benefits, and safe working environments. The council emphasized the importance of union representation in improving job quality and providing pathways for career advancement.

Overall, the meeting underscored the critical need for systemic changes in the TDL sector to address the challenges faced by workers and their communities. The council plans to follow up on these discussions with actionable steps to improve conditions for those employed in this vital industry.