Large rail union rejects Biden-brokered deal that was hailed for averting rail strike
One of the nation’s largest railroad unions voted against the deal President Joe Biden helped broker between railroad carriers and the unions representing rail workers in September.
The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents workers who build and maintain railroad structures, like tracks and bridges.
Of the 11,845 members who voted, 6,646 (56%) voted against the deal, and 5,100 (43%) voted in favor.
The tentative agreement in September was hailed as an accomplishment that avoided an economically catastrophic rail strike, but now that rank-and-file members have seen the deal and are voting on it, a strike is back on the table. They argue the agreement doesn’t address their primary concern: quality of life for railroad workers.
The agreement provides one additional personal leave day. It also allows members to attend three annual routine or preventive health care visits. However, those appointments must be scheduled at least 30 days in advance, and must take place on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
The results of this vote will send both parties back the bargaining table.
Since members rejected the deal, the union and the Class I freight carriers are in a “status quo” period where both sides will re-start negotiations. Status quo will extend to five days after Congress reconvenes, which is set for Nov. 14.
“Railroaders are discouraged and upset with working conditions and compensation and hold their employer in low regard. Railroaders do not feel valued. They resent the fact that management holds no regard for their quality of life, illustrated by their stubborn reluctance to provide a higher quantity of paid time off, especially for sickness,” said union president Tony D. Cardwell in a statement.
Of the 12 unions, four have ratified the agreement. Two have voted against it: the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the International Association of Machinists.
This story was originally published October 10, 2022 at 2:54 PM.
