The nation’s third-largest railroad union has rejected a new contract accepted by several other unions, renewing the possibility of a strike that could cripple the economy.
Over half of the track maintenance workers represented by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees who voted on the contract opposed the 5-year deal despite raises totaling 24% and $5,000 in bonuses.
Union President Tony Cardwell says the railroads didn’t do enough to address the lack of paid time off, especially sick time, and dangerous working conditions the union blames on the railroads eliminating nearly a third of their jobs over the past 6 years.
Cardwell says railroaders are discouraged and upset and hold their employer in low regard because they don’t feel valued by management that “holds no regard for their quality of life.”
He said the railroads’ position is illustrated by their stubborn reluctance to provide a higher quantity of paid time off, especially for sickness.”
Officials with the group that represents the railroads in negotiations say they were disappointed the union rejected the agreement, but emphasized there’s no immediate threat of a strike.
That’s because the union has agreed to keep working until 5 days after Congress reconvenes in mid-November to allow time for more negotiations.