All proposed changes had to have been received at Grand Lodge no later than April 30, 1998 for publication in the Journal. Any changes received after that date are being returned to the member who submitted them and will not be acted upon by the Constitution and By-Laws Committee.

In the proposed changes listed here, language recommended for deletion is denoted by a line through the word or words, while language that is recommended to be added is denoted by underscoring and bold-face type.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 38

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 2912

ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Section 1. Formation of Lodges and Application for Charters. To institute a Subordinate Lodge fifteen (15) twenty-five (25) or more persons eligible for membership under the provisions of Section 1 of Article XXI shall meet under the auspices of someone authorized to represent the Brotherhood, and after paying the required fees and dues as set forth in Article XIX, they shall proceed to vote by secret ballot upon each applicant in turn in alphabetical order. If two or more negative votes are cast against an applicant he shall be rejected. When the ballot is closed those who have been accepted shall be initiated by the duly accredited representative, and those who have been rejected shall have their fees and dues returned. If the necessary number have been accepted they shall decide upon a name for their Lodge, leaving the number blank, and proceed to elect Officers as hereinafter provided in Section 9 of this Article. After the Officers are installed, application must be made for a charter upon blanks furnished by the duly accredited representative of the Brotherhood and requests for instructions addressed to the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer respecting bonding of Officers, representatives and employes. When the said application and request for instructions are received by the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer, accompanied by the necessary fees and dues, he shall at once issue and forward a charter, a full set of supplies to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Lodge and instructions governing bonding of the Subordinate Lodge's Officers, representatives and employes.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 39

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 3075

ARTICLE III, SECTION 16, BE AMENDED TO READ:

In the case of any collective bargaining agreements adopted upon approval by the President on behalf of the Brotherhood on a national or regional basis, the President shall forward a copy of such agreement to each constituent System Division, Federation or Subordinate Lodge which has members directly affected by such agreement and also maintain at the Headquarters of the Brotherhood copies of any such agreement available for inspection on request by any member or any employe whose rights are affected thereunder.

The President shall not have the power to enter into any agreement other than national agreements without the written consent of the affected General Chairmen (Chairman). If the President is not able Prior to receiveing the written consent of all affected General Chairmen, he shall have the right to submit such agreement directly to the affected rank and file for ratification or rejection. Such ratification vote shall be by mail ballot referendum to all members in good standing affected by such agreement. If a ratification is necessary, and it shall be by mailed ballot referendum conducted by an impartial ballot counting company. Any agreement made by any system division or federation shall be ratified by the affected membership in the same manner. In the event the affected membership ratifies the agreement, the President shall be empowered to enter into the agreement. In the event the affected membership reject the agreement, the President shall not be empowered to enter into the agreement.

The President shall forward a copy of such agreement to each constituent system division, federation and subordinate lodge which has members affected by such agreement and also maintain, at the headquarters of the Brotherhood, copies of any such agreement available for inspection on request by any member or any employee whose rights are affected thereunder.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 40

SUBMITTED BY NORTHWEST REGIONAL ASSOCIATION

ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 14, PARAGRAPH 6, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Credentials shall be issued to the Secretary-Treasurers of Subordinate Lodges three (3) months in advance of a prior to January 1 of the year of the Grand Lodge Convention. Credentials must be signed by the Secretary-Treasurer of the Subordinate Lodge. In the event that the office of the Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurer is vacant or the Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurer is elected as a Delegate or Alternate Delegate the President of the Subordinate Lodge would sign the credential. Original credentials shall be given to the duly elected delegates. Duplicate credentials shall be forwarded to the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer's office as soon as possible after the election of the delegates.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 41

SUBMITTED BY NORTHWEST REGIONAL ASSOCIATION

ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 14, PARAGRAPH 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

The International Association shall be composed of all General Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, Assistant Chairmen and Secretary-Treasurers of System Divisions or Federations, or others of comparable title, and all Grand Lodge Officers and Appointees. Grand Lodge Appointees will be non-voting members of the International Association.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 42

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1142

ARTICLE XXIV, SECTION 14, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Sec. 14. Endorsing of State and Provincial Candidates for Public Office. State or Provincial Legislative Directors may submit to the Grand Lodge President recommendations with respect to the endorsement of candidates for municipal, local, State or Provincial office, and upon the Grand Lodge President's approval, such endorsements will be publicized within the State and or Province. State Legislative Directors may submit to the Grand Lodge President recommendations with respect to the financial endorsement of candidates for State Legislative office, and upon the Grand Lodge President's approval, such financial endorsement will be made and publicized within the state. The funds for these endorsements shall be drawn from the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Political Action Committee account known as the Maintenance of Way Political League (MWPL). The funds administered in the MWPL shall be identified by the state from which contributed and shall be administered in a manner that allows not less than thirty (30) percent of a state's contribution to be utilized for the endorsement of candidates for State Legislative office as recommended by the State Legislative Director and the State Legislative board. Prior to making any endorsement recommendations, State or Provincial Legislative Directors shall notify members and officers living in the political jurisdictions where endorsements are being considered and shall solicit the opinion of the affected members concerning the propriety and efficacy of the contemplated endorsement. Under no circumstances shall a State or Provincial Legislative Director issue or publicize endorsements of any kind for candidates to national office without the approval of the Grand Lodge President.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 43

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 509

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Thereafter, effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1990 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect nine-tenths (9/10) of the average straight-time hourly rate-of-pay. Effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1991 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and five one hundredths (1.05) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay, e Effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1992 1998 and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and two tenths (1.2) three tenths (1.3) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay. The average straight time hourly rate of pay will be based on the information reflected in the annual statement published by the National Railway Labor Conference Interstate Commerce Commission Statement No. A-300 for Maintenance of Way Employes for calendar year 1989 and each successive year. Said amount shall be rounded to the nearest 25 cents, which additional sum shall be taken into consideration when calculating any dues increase for the following year.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 44

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 509

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of one dollar and seventy-five cents (1.75) eighty cents (80¢), as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the United States (U.S.) State and Canadian Provincial Legislative Department Funds. The annual $8.00 assessment Seventy cents (70) of this shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and to be placed in an Emergency Fund and from which the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits. If there is unused money left in a State or Provincial Legislative Department Fund at the end of the year, that money will be returned to the United States or Canadian Legislative Department Funds for use as directed by the Director Legislative Department.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 45

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306

ARTICLE III, NEW SECTION:

During each year of his four year term of office, the President shall visit at least five percent of the Brotherhood's subordinate lodges, at either regular or special lodge meetings. His attendance at those subordinate lodge meetings shall be proportioned by the subordinate lodges, region and system/division affiliation.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 46

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306

ARTICLE IV, SECTION 3, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Sec. 3. The Vice Presidents will be assigned to the following duties, namely:

Two to be located in Canada. Five to be located in the United States. Those located in the United States shall be elected from one of each of five regions comprising the Northeastern territory, the Northwestern territory, the Southeastern territory, the Southwestern territory and the Western territory. The Grand Lodge President shall designate the territory comprising each region and the territorial assignments of the two located in Canada. The Grand Lodge Vice Presidents shall devote their entire time to the upbuilding of the Brotherhood, to do such work as decided upon by the Grand Lodge Officers at their annual meetings. They will work under the direct instructions of the President. They shall visit and instruct all Subordinate Lodges, within their respective regions, at least once per four-year term. They shall assist the General Chairmen in their committees and boards and shall have authority to examine and audit the records and books of any Subordinate Lodge and shall institute civil and criminal action to protect the interests of the Brotherhood when so directed by the President. Each Vice President shall prepare a written report on their activities and responsibilities during their term to be presented at each Regular Convention.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 47

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306

ARTICLE V, NEW SECTION:

During each year of his four year term of office, the Secretary-Treasurer shall visit at least five percent of the Brotherhood's subordinate lodges, at either regular or special lodge meetings. His attendance at those subordinate lodge meetings shall be proportioned by the subordinate lodges, region and system/division affiliation.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 48

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Sec. 4. Increases in the established initiation fee or in Grand Lodge dues shall be made pursuant to majority vote of the rank-and-file members casting votes by mail-ballot referendum, mailed to all members in good standing. The mail-ballot referendum shall be conducted by an impartial ballot-counting company delegates voting at a regular Grand Lodge Convention, or at a special Convention of the Grand Lodge held upon not less than thirty (30) days' written notice to all System Divisions or Federations and Subordinate Lodges entitled to such notice.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 49

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 469

NEW ARTICLE:

In the event any member of the BMWE is killed while on duty for their respective railroad employer, at least one system officer from the deceased's respective system federation must attend the funeral. In the event any member of the BMWE is killed while on duty for their respective railroad employer, the President of the Grand Lodge, or one of his or her agents, must attend the funeral of the deceased member.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 50

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 469

ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 1, NEW PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Upon completion of the 1998 Grand Lodge Convention, the President of Grand Lodge shall establish an independent system federation to represent the members of the BMWE who work for the Chicago commuter railway system known as Metra. The President, or one of his agents, shall convene a Joint Protective Board comprised of two members from each respective subordinate lodge. These members will be elected by the rank and file from each respective lodge and there will be one member representing the Track Department and one member representing the B&B Department. These members will nominate system officers consisting of a General Chairman, Assistant General Chairman, Secretary-Treasurer, and Assistant Secretary-Treasurer. The rank and file will have thirty calendar days from the close of nominations to elect said system officers. In the event of a tie, there will be a run-off election and ballots will be received for a total of 14 calendar days. Upon election of officers, they will convene to establish the system constitution and bylaws and present same to the membership for ratification. The membership will have 30 calendar days to mail their ballots to the duly-elected Secretary-Treasurer and will be either accepted or rejected by a majority of the eligible voters who must be members in good standing with the BMWE. The new system federation will be known as the Chicago Commuter Rail Federation. This system shall be comprised of all members of the BMWE who are working for the Chicago commuter railroad known as Metra and any and all members of the BMWE who, through purchase or lease of trackage rights, in the Chicago area, are absorbed by Metra. Incoming subordinate lodges will break any connection to their previous system federation and will be governed by the system federation known as the Chicago Commuter System Federation and will have all rights and privileges afforded to them under the Chicago Commuter System Federation constitution and bylaws.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 51

SUBMITTED BY PROVINCIAL LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, 9% of each such monthly Grand Lodge dues payment, to be placed in the State and Provincial Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; discontinued and to replace that revenue, Grand Lodge dues increased by sixty-seven cents per month effective August 1, 1998. and For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall also set aside twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and to be placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 52

SUBMITTED BY GRAND LODGE

ARTICLE XIII, BE AMENDED TO READ:

There shall be maintained at Headquarters a location designated by the President a Department of Research and Strategic Coordination. The head of this Department shall be appointed by the President and approved by the majority of the elected Grand Lodge Officers. He The Director of the Research and Strategic Coordination Department shall devote his (her) time to coordinating the work of the Department of Research and Strategic Coordination between the various Departments of the Brotherhood, other unions within and outside of the Railroad industry, coordinating national bargaining, assisting in the development of a strategic plan for the Brotherhood, assisting the various Systems and Federations in the coordination of strategic planning for collective bargaining and working on special projects assigned by the President.

The Director of Research shall, when deemed appropriate by the President, be provided with an Assistant who shall primarily administer the Department and perform various clerical functions but who shall also perform other tasks, such as perform research and make presentations to various Brotherhood bodies, as directed by the Director of Research and Strategic Coordination. The Assistant shall be appointed by the President and approved by a majority of the Executive Board.

The Research and Strategic Coordination Department shall also devote its time to the gathering and compiling of statistics in the United States and Canada to be used in wage negotiations, conferences or hearings before arbitration boards, or other constituted bodies when instructed to do so by the President and shall also recommend, when appropriate, experts to assist in developing such research. While not engageding in the gathering of statistics for the above purpose above tasks, he the Research and Strategic Coordination Director and/or the Assistant shall do any other work pertaining to the interests of the Brotherhood when called upon by the President.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 53

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 320

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 5, PARAGRAPH (a), BE AMENDED TO READ:

(a) A member coming under the provisions of a Union Shop Agreement who becomes delinquent for all purposes by reason of failure to pay his dues and assessments shall be considered in violation of said agreement; such violation requires the filing of a citation notice and charging the member a service charge in the amount of 10% of the unpaid dues for each month delinquent, after which dues and assessment payments cannot be accepted.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 54

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 320

ARTICLE XXI, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH (a), BE AMENDED TO READ:

(a) Who leaves the service of the railway or transfers to or becomes employed in a department not under the jurisdiction of the Brotherhood, or who is employed in an official capacity by a railway, shall be entitled to apply for and receive a Withdrawal Card without cost; or if he so desires, may continue his membership by continuing to comply with all provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws applicable to membership, including payment of full dues and assessments for a period of five (5) years after which the member's seniority in all ranks and rosters in a department under the jurisdiction of the Brotherhood will be frozen; provided, however, that such a member will not be eligible to participate in or take any part in transacting the business of this Brotherhood, except as provided in Article XVIII, Section 2. Members holding Withdrawal Cards and returning to service in a position under the jurisdiction of this Brotherhood for a period of thirty (30) calendar days must, within thirty-five (35) calendar days from date of such re-employment, present and surrender such Withdrawal Card to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Subordinate Lodge within the jurisdiction of which he is employed, or to a direct representative of the Grand Lodge or System Division or Federation and pay dues for the month in which he returns to service.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 55

SUBMITTED BY GRAND LODGE

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPHS 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 AND 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Sec. 3. Each member shall be required to pay Grand Lodge dues and assessments, System Division or Federation dues and assessments and Subordinate Lodge dues and assessments.

Thereafter, e Effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1990 January 1998 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect nine-tenths (9/10) one and two tenths of the average straight-time hourly rate-of-pay. Effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1991 January 1999 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and five one hundredths (1.05) three and one half tenths (1.35) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay, effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1992 and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and two tenths (1.2) three and one half tenths (1.35) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay. The average straight time hourly rate of pay will be based on the information reflected in Interstate Commerce Commission Statement No. A-300 for Maintenance of Way Employes for calendar year 1989 and each successive year the National Railway Labor Conference published annual statement or if the National Railway Labor Conference published annual statement is altered materially, an alternative equivalent formula shall be adopted and approved by the Grand Lodge Officers so as to accurately reflect increases in rates-of-pay provided for under National Agreements during the appropriate measurement period. Said amount shall be rounded to the nearest 25 cents, which additional sum shall be taken into consideration when calculating any dues increase for the following year.

In the event that the Interstate Commerce Commission ceases to publish Statement No. A-300 on an annual basis, or alters it materially, the annual statement published by the National Railway Labor Conference will be used as an alternative equivalent formula. In the event that the National Railway Labor Conference ceases to publish the annual statement or alters it materially, an alternative equivalent formula shall be adopted so as to accurately reflect increases in rates-of-pay provided for under National Agreements during the appropriate measurement period.

Effective October 31, 1990, the five dollar strike assessment enacted at the 1986 Grand Lodge Convention shall be discontinued.

Note: Members who on July 12, 19908, have paid dues beyond January 1, 19919, will be considered in good standing for the period for which dues have been paid.

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), one dollar and seventy-five cents ($1.75) for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department. as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits. The Secretary-Treasurer shall allocate from the one dollar and seventy five cents ($1.75) a sum of sixty-five cents (65¢) based upon the per capita of dues payments received from that state or province in an account to be used in that state or province for a twelve month period from the date the money was placed in the state or provincial account at Grand Lodge. If the allocated 65¢ is not used for the purpose designated by the President in a twelve (12) month period, the monies shall be placed in the general account of the State and Provincial Legislative Fund. For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of twenty-five cents (25¢) which will be placed in an Emergency Fund from which the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits as well as meet any emergency which can be considered detrimental to the Brotherhood.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 56

SUBMITTED BY GRAND LODGE

ARTICLE XX, SECTION 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Sec. 4. Any member who has 50 years of continuous membership in the Brotherhood shall receive a life membership and appropriate merit awards, upon request. Retirees who have less than 50 years of membership with the Brotherhood and wish to become a life member may request to purchase a life membership in the Brotherhood. The cost for a life membership will be determined by the number of years needed to equal 50 years of membership multiplied by 80% of the current retiree dues rate. Life members shall continue to have all of the rights and benefits afforded a full dues-paying retired member under in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 57

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104

ARTICLE XII, NEW SECTION:

A report by the Legislative Department concerning matters pertaining to the good of the Brotherhood shall be printed in each and every edition of the Journal.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 58

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104

ARTICLE XXI, SECTION 8, PARAGRAPH 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Any member in good standing shall be admitted as a visitor to any Subordinate Lodge of the Brotherhood while said Subordinate Lodge is in session provided he can prove that he is in good standing with his own Subordinate Lodge.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 59

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104

ARTICLE XXI, NEW SECTION:

Each month, Grand Lodge will issue receipt to each member showing status of membership.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 60

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104

ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 6, PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Every member in good standing of a Subordinate Lodge shall have the right to attend all regular and special meetings of the a Lodge and to participate in its deliberations and vote, and to express at such meetings his views upon candidates in elections of the a Lodge or upon any business properly before the meeting that pertains to the good of the Brotherhood, subject, however, to such reasonable rules and regulations as the a Subordinate Lodge shall establish pertaining to the conduct of its meetings including its right to enforce reasonable rules governing the responsibility of every member to his a Subordinate Lodge and this Brotherhood as an institution and prohibiting conduct which would interfere with the a Subordinate Lodge's Lodge or this Brotherhood's performance of their legal or contractual obligations.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 61

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 144

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, not less than ten percent (10%) of that month's total Grand Lodge dues payment shall be the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 62

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 144

ARTICLE XXII, ET AL, BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

In Article XXII and at every other place in all other Articles from Article I through and including Article XXVI of Grand Lodge Constitution and Bylaws, change the term "subordinate lodge" to "local lodge".

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 63

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 144

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department.

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, ;and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 64

SUBMITTED BY NORTHEASTERN SYSTEM FEDERATION

JOINT PROTECTIVE BOARD

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPHS 1 AND 10, BE AMENDED TO READ:

PARAGRAPH 1:

Each member, including Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurers, shall be required to pay Grand Lodge dues and assessments, System Division or Federation dues and assessments and Subordinate Lodge dues.

PARAGRAPH 10:

Subordinate Lodge dues shall be uniform by System Divisions or Federations Subject to the provisions of Section 4 of this Article, all Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurers shall be exempt from the payment of all dues while holding that office. Except that any Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurer who is delinquent for more than ninety (90) calendar days in the execution and filing of subordinate lodge reports as required in accordance with Article XXII, Section 13, will be responsible for the payment of full dues, fees and assessments retroactively for each month, beginning the month such report was due and continuing each month until such written report is finally compiled and received.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 65

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1302

ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 14, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Subordinate Lodges shall elect delegates and alternates to the Grand Lodge Convention at a meeting held on or after January 1 of the year in which the Convention convenes. All members in good standing of the Subordinate Lodge will be given at least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing at their last known addresses of the date, time and place at which election shall be held. The Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer will be advised of the results of such elections in ample time for this information to be recorded at the Grand Lodge. All expenses of said delegates shall be paid by Subordinate Lodge or Lodges represented the Grand Lodge. An assessment of $1.00 per subordinate lodge member per month shall be placed in a Grand Lodge convention account by the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer to pay for lodging, travel expenses, meal per diem and lost wages of subordinate lodge delegates to the Grand Lodge convention.

Any revenue remaining in the account after all subordinate lodge delegates have been made whole shall be placed in the general fund.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 66

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1302

ARTICLE I, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH 5, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Every bona fide candidate for Grand Lodge office shall have certain rights with respect to the distribution of campaign literature and freedom from discrimination. The Grand Lodge will comply with all reasonable requests of all such candidates to distribute, by mail or otherwise, at the candidate's expense, campaign literature in aid of his candidacy to all members in good standing of the Brotherhood. Whenever the Grand Lodge or its incumbent Officers authorize distribution to members, by mail or otherwise, of campaign literature on behalf of any bona fide candidate for office or on behalf of the Grand Lodge itself with reference to elections, similar distribution shall be made by the Grand Lodge and its Officers for any other bona fide candidate if so requested by such candidate, and equal treatment will be accorded as to the expense of such distribution to be borne by such candidate. Every bona fide candidate shall have the right upon request, once within thirty (30) days prior to Grand Lodge elections in which he is a candidate, to inspect the list containing the names and last known addresses of all members of the Brotherhood who are subject to Union Shop Agreements requiring membership in the Brotherhood as a condition of their employment, which lists shall be maintained by the Secretary-Treasurer at the Headquarters of the Brotherhood. Every bona fide candidate for Grand Lodge office shall supply the Grand Lodge with a picture and a brief campaign announcement of 250 words or less to be published in the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Journal. All information shall be published in the same Journal edition as the last proposed bylaws changes prior to the Grand Lodge convention. The Grand Lodge shall also provide adequate safeguards to insure that its elections are fair and impartial, and any candidate has the right to request and designate an observer at the polls and the counting of ballots.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 67

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1662

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 2, PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Distribution of the initiation fees shall be made as follows: $25.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the General Fund of the Grand Lodge, with $25.00 reverting to the system division or federation treasury and $50.00 reverting to the subordinate lodge's treasury.

(a) When applications are written by Grand Lodge Organizer or Representative, $50.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the General Fund of the Grand Lodge, with $25.00 reverting to the System Division or Federation treasury and $25.00 reverting to the Subordinate Lodge's treasury.

(b) When applications are written by a System Division or Federation Officer or representatives, $50.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the System Division or Federation, with $25.00 reverting to Grand Lodge and $25.00 to the Subordinate Lodge treasury.

(c) When applications are written by Subordinate Lodge representatives, $50.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the Subordinate Lodge treasury, with $25.00 reverting to the Grand Lodge and $25.00 reverting to the System Division or Federation treasury.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 68

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1662

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of one dollar and seventy-five cents ($1.75) eighty cents (80¢), twenty-nine cents (29¢) of which shall be placed in a legislative reserve fund on which the Grand Lodge President may draw only for legislative activity directly related to the national contract and similar individual railroad contracts or for unanticipated legislative events of major importance to the Brotherhood as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the United States (U.S.) State and Canadian Provincial Legislative Department Funds. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; From the United States and Canadian Legislative Department fund, 35% shall be reserved for the use of each State [or Provincial] Legislative Director on a per capita of dues paying members living in each State and Province; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and to be placed in an Emergency Fund and from which the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 69

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1710

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial Legislative Department Fund. No change in distribution of Grand Lodge dues, fees, and assessments shall permit Grand Lodge funds allocated to the individual legislative effort of any specific state or province to fall below the total amount budgeted and/or otherwise afforded to the legislative effort of that state or province for the preceding calendar year. When any state or province permits an amount equal to 150% or more of its annual budget to accumulate in its legislative account, the Grand Lodge President, with the consent of the Executive Board, may reallocate for other legislative purposes any monies in excess of the amount budgeted for that state or province for the succeeding twelve months. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 70

SUBMITTED BY CANADIAN SYSTEM FEDERATION

ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 9, PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:

All Officers of Subordinate Lodges shall be nominated and elected as hereafter provided. Nominations and elections shall be held once every three (3) years commencing with the Fall elections in 1960 at the first regular meeting of each Subordinate Lodge in the last three (3) months of the year. In the United States, nominations and elections shall be held once every three (3) years commencing with the fall elections in 1960 at the first regular meeting of each subordinate lodge in the last three (3) months of the year. In Canada, nominations and elections shall be held once every four (4) years commencing with the fall elections in 1998 at the first regular meeting of each subordinate lodge in the last three (3) months of the year. At the option of the Subordinate Lodge, nominations may be held either at the same meeting at which elections are held or at a meeting preceding the first regular meeting of the last three (3) months when elections are conducted, provided that all members in good standing of the Subordinate Lodge have been given at least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing at their last known home addresses of the date, time and place at which nominations shall be made and the date, time and place at which elections shall be held; and provided, further, that Subordinate Lodges may at their option permit nominations to be made by mail to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Lodge during the period following the notice and preceding the meeting at which the election is to be conducted. All Officers shall be elected from duly nominated candidates as aforesaid and no "write-in" candidates are permitted.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 71

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1649

ARTICLE IV, SECTION 3, BE AMENDED TO READ:

The Vice Presidents will be assigned to the following duties, namely:

Two to be located in Canada. Five to be located in the United States. Those located in the United States shall be elected from one of each of five regions comprising the Northeastern territory, the Northwestern territory, the Southeastern territory, the Southwestern territory and the Western territory Region 1. Comprising of the Burlington Northern Roads, Region 2. Comprising of the Union Pacific Roads, Region 3. Comprising of the CSX Transportation Roads, Region 4. Comprising of the Norfolk Southern Roads, Region 5. At large from the other roads. The Grand Lodge President shall designate the territory comprising each region and the territorial assignments of the two located in Canada. The Grand Lodge Vice Presidents shall devote their entire time to the upbuilding of the Brotherhood, to do such work as decided upon by the Grand Lodge Officers at their annual meetings. They will work under the direct instructions of the President. They shall visit and instruct Subordinate Lodges, assist the General Chairmen in their committees and boards and shall have authority to examine and audit the records and books of any Subordinate Lodge and shall institute civil and criminal action to protect the interests of the Brotherhood when so directed by the President. Each Vice President shall prepare a written report on their activities and responsibilities during their term to be presented at each Regular Convention.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 72

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1649

ARTICLE VI, SECTION 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

The quorum of the Executive Board shall be four (4) members five (5) members. These Executive Board members shall be elected 1 to be located in Canada and 5 to be located in the United States. These located in United States shall be elected from one of each of the 5 regions. Region 1. Comprising of the Burlington Northern Roads, Region 2. Comprising of the Union Pacific Roads, Region 3. Comprising of the CSX Transportation Roads, Region 4. Comprising of the Norfolk Southern Roads, Region 5. At large from the other roads.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 73

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1649

ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 14, PARAGRAPH 5, BE AMENDED TO READ:

For establishment of Regional Associations, the following Regions shall be created:

Northeast Region Southwest Region

Northwest Region Western Region

Southeast Region

1) Comprising of the Burlington Northern Roads

2) Comprising of the Union Pacific Roads

3) Comprising of the CSX Transportation Roads

4) Comprising of the Norfolk Southern Roads

5) At large from the other roads

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 74

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062

3073 AND 3094

ARTICLE I, SECTION 1, PARAGRAPH 1, (AND ALL SUBSEQUENT BYLAW REFERENCES TO SYSTEM DIVISIONS AND FEDERATIONS BE SUBSTITUTED WITH REGION DIVISIONS) BE AMENDED TO READ:

This Organization shall be known as the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes, hereinafter referred to as the Brotherhood. It shall consist of a Grand Lodge, System Divisions and Federations and such Subordinate Lodges (5) five Region Divisions in United States located 1. Northeast 2. Southeast 3. Midwest 4. Southwest 5. West and two (2) Region Divisions in Canada 1. East 2. West with subordinate Lodges with the regions, as may hold legal unreclaimed charters granted by the Grand Lodge.

ARTICLE I, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:

The Grand Lodge shall consist of a President, seven (7) Vice Presidents, five (5) of whom shall reside in and be citizens of the United States and two (2) of whom shall reside in and be citizens of Canada within the Region Divisions and be citizens of the United States and two (2) of whom shall reside within the Region Divisions and be citizens of Canada; a Secretary-Treasurer, six (6) members of the Executive Board, five (5) of whom shall reside in and be citizens of the United States and one (1) of whom shall reside in and be a citizen of Canada. A Chaplain, a Messenger, and such Sentinels and Sergeants-at-Arms as may be necessary shall be appointed by the President at each Convention of the Grand Lodge.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 75

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062,

3073 and 3094

ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 1, PARAGRAPH 1 (1), BE AMENDED TO READ:

Organization and Composition. A Department shall be established and maintained within the Brotherhood to be known as the Protective Department. The purpose of this Department shall be the promotion of service conditions and protection of its members engaged on the railways in the departments represented by the Brotherhood. For the purpose of conducting the business of the Protective Department the following agencies shall be established and maintained:

(1) System Division or Federation Region Divisions, Joint Protective Boards.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 76

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062

3073 AND 3094

ARTICLE I, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:

The foregoing Grand Lodge Officers shall be nominated and elected at the regular quadrennial Conventions of the Grand Lodge by a representative majority vote of the duly accredited delegates elected by secret ballot as hereafter provided in this Constitution and By-Laws; provided, however, that the two (2) Vice Presidents and the member of the Executive Board from Canada shall be nominated and elected by delegates from Canadian System Federations rank and file from Canadian Region Divisions and the five (5) Vice Presidents and the five (5) members of the Executive Board from the United States Region Divisions shall be nominated and elected by delegates rank and file from the United States Region Divisions System Divisions or Federation. Each of the five (5) Vice Presidents and five (5) members of the Executive Board from the United States shall be from a System Division or Federation in his respective region and shall be nominated and elected by delegates from his respective region. Provided further, that the Grand Lodge President and Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall be nominated and elected by a representative majority vote of the delegates from both Canada and the United States. Grand Lodge Officers shall serve for a term of four (4) years unless removed by death, resignation or for cause, and shall be eligible for re-election. They shall be installed during the session of Grand Lodge in which they are elected, their installation and term of office to be effective commencing September 1 following election except in the case of filling an unexpired term, when such Officer shall take charge of his office immediately upon being elected and he shall serve for the remainder of the term; provided, however, that the term of office of any temporary Grand Lodge Officer will expire immediately upon the election and installation of his successor.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 77

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062

3073 AND 3094

ARTICLE VII, SECTION 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

The salaries of the President, Vice Presidents, Secretary-Treasurer, Vice Chairman and appointees shall be on an annual basis, and shall be paid in equal semi-monthly installments.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 78

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062

3073 AND 3094

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPHS 2, 4 AND 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:

PARAGRAPH 2:

Thereafter, effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1990 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect nine-tenths (9/10) of the average straight-time hourly rate-of-pay. Effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1991 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and five one hundredths (1.05) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay, effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1992 and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and two tenths (1.2) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay. In June 2002 and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodges dues shall be adjusted to reflect three and five tenth (3.5) minus three (3) dollars consolidation reduction of dues of the average straight time hourly rate of pay. The average straight time hourly rate of pay will be based on the information reflected in Interstate Commerce Commission Statement No. A-300 for Maintenance of Way Employes for calendar year 1989 and each successive year. Said amount shall be rounded to the nearest 25 cents, which additional sum shall be taken into consideration when calculating any dues increase for the following year.

PARAGRAPH 4:

Effective October 31, 1990, the five dollar strike assessment enacted at the 1986 Grand Lodge Convention shall be discontinued. A $500,000.00 transfer from the strike funds shall be placed into the General fund ear marked for the use exclusively in advancing, educating and legislating the interests of the membership in next round of bargaining under the Railway Labor Act in year 2000 Local or National Agreements. This advancing the memberships interest should include a study of the physical effects of our working environment, lower back trauma and other repetitive motion disorders. The accumulation of these trauma and how actuarial studies, insurance costs, Federal Employee Liability claims and Railroad Retirement disability data provide information and documentation for reduced requirements for retirement pensions. A accounting of the fund will be separate and distinct here after called the Negotiation fund.

PARAGRAPH 7:

System Division or Federation dues shall be uniform by System Divisions or Federations. All dues will be uniform and collected by the International.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 79

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062

3073 AND 3094

ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 5, PARAGRAPHS 1 AND 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

PARAGRAPH 1:

Nomination and Election of System Division or Federation Officers. Effective with elections to be held during 1960 and thereafter, all Officers of System Divisions or Federations shall be elected not less often than once every four (4) years either; (1) by secret ballot vote of the members in good standing of each Subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of such System Division or Federation or (2) by delegates and incumbent Officers of the System Division or Federation who have been elected by secret ballot vote of the members of said Subordinate Lodges to represent them on such System Division or Federations. Any incumbent Officer of a System Division or Federation originally elected by secret ballot vote to represent a Subordinate Lodge on the System Division or Federation may continue to participate in future elections if so permitted by the System Division's or Federation's Constitution and/or By-Laws and so long as he remains an Officer and provided that Subordinate Lodges are given an opportunity to elect new delegates prior to each election held by the System Division or Federation Regional Officers. Effective with the election to be held during 2002 and thereafter, in accordance with Article XXIII, section 22 by secret ballot vote of the members in good standing of each respective Region.

PARAGRAPH 2:

If such elections are conducted by secret ballot vote of the members in good standing of each Subordinate Lodge comprising the System Federation or Division, such election shall be conducted by referendum of said membership and a plurality of the votes cast for each office shall be sufficient to elect. Prior to any such election a reasonable opportunity to nominate candidates shall be afforded by at least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing to members of the Subordinate Lodges at their last known addresses of the date, time, and manner in which nominations will be received and the election held. If elections by System Divisions or Federations are conducted by the alternative method of having only Subordinate Lodge delegates and incumbent Officers as aforesaid participate in the election, then the elections shall be by majority vote after at least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing to the delegates and incumbent Officers of the date, time, and place in which nominations shall be made and the elections conducted. All such elections will be conducted by secret mail in ballot, Grand Lodge shall mail to each member in good standing, a ballot listing each position to be voted on and the candidate for each position in each respective Region. A plurality of the vote from the members returning ballots shall be declared the winner of the election. Nomination and election of Regional Officers. Effective with the election to be held during 2002 and thereafter in accordance with Article XXIII, Section 22.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 80

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023, 3062

3073 AND 3094

ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 22, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Consolidation of System Divisions or Federations into Regions shall occur on June 22, 2002 when the System Division or Federation absolve the System Divisions or Federation into the Region where they reside. On June 22, 2002 all System Divisions or Federation will be declared null and void and the Constitution and By-law of the System Divisions Federations will no longer exist. All General Chairman of the System Division or Federations System Division or Federation holding full time paid positions will become officers of the Brotherhood in the Regions where they currently work, with the Vice President in the Region as their immediate executive. These position will be eliminated either through attrition or on June 22, 2004.

The foregoing Grand Lodge Officers below the rank of General Chairman, Vice Chairman or equivalent shall be nominated by having two (2) lodges within the vice chairman's district nominate him for the position to the Grand Lodge between April 1 and April 15 of the election year. He shall be elected by rank and file membership vote conducted in June 22, 2002 prior to the Grand Lodge quadrennial Convention by a majority vote of members in good standing by secret ballot conducted by mail. On or before May 15, 2002 of the Convention year and every four (4) years thereafter Grand Lodge shall mail to each member in good standing, a ballot listing each position to be voted on and the candidate for each position in each respective Region. Ballots shall be mailed to a reputable Ballot counting firm chosen in March by the Executive Board. Ballots shall be accepted up to and including June 22, of the election year. If June 22 is a Saturday or Sunday ballots shall be accepted the following business day. The candidate receiving a plurality of the vote from the members returning ballots shall be declared the winner of the election.

The vice chairman's District will be the district or territory previously determined by System Divisions or Federation. The vice chairman position will be paid $48,000.00 per year and all reasonable expenses will be paid in accordance with his position and duties.. When two or more Systems of Railways are consolidated and operated as one unit, the Joint Protective Boards on such Systems of Railways may consolidate or federate in order to facilitate the representation of the members thereon, in the following manner.

When two or more Systems of Railways of approximately equal mileage and importance are consolidated, the Joint Protective Boards on such Systems may meet in joint session. At such joint session, existing Constitutions and/or By-Laws shall be suspended and all Officers' positions declared vacant, and a new Constitution and/or By-Laws suitable for the government of the Consolidated System Division or Federation shall be adopted and new Officers elected.

Where a small System of Railway is being consolidated or absorbed by a large System of Railway, the System Organization on such small absorbed System may become affiliated with the System Organization on the large absorbing System and shall be governed by the Constitution and/or By-Laws in effect on such larger System with respect to representation and otherwise.

In all cases of consolidations of two (2) or more System Divisions or Federations, the funds of those which consolidate shall revert to the System Division or Federation in which they are consolidated; however, all records shall become the property of and be returned to Grand Lodge for such distribution as may be appropriate.

In all cases of abandonment of a System Division or Federation, the funds and records shall be returned to Grand Lodge in accordance with the procedure hereinbefore provided in Article XXII, Section 2, for dissolution of Subordinate Lodges.

1998 PROPOSAL NO. 81

SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1296

ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPHS 1 AND 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:

Increases in the established initiation fee or in Grand Lodge dues shall be made pursuant to majority vote of the delegates voting at a regular Grand Lodge Convention, or at a special Convention of the Grand Lodge held upon not less than thirty (30) days' written notice to all System Divisions or Federations and Subordinate Lodges entitled to such notice. Increases in Grand Lodge dues will be voted on by all Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way employees in good standing on a set date by mail-in ballots to be mailed out to members on date set by Grand Lodge and returned to Grand Lodge in sixty (60) days from set date. Ballots not marked for or against when returned become void. Ballots not returned become void.

Any increases in dues by Joint Protective Boards or System Divisions or Federations shall be effected as follows: All dues increases by joint protective boards or system divisions or federations shall be voted on by all Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way employees in good standing represented by said joint protective boards or system divisions or federations by mail-in ballot. Ballots to be mailed out to members on date set by joint protective board or system division or federation and returned in sixty (60) days from set date. Ballots not marked for or against when returned become void. Ballots not returned become void. By majority vote of the delegates to a regular Convention of the Joint Protective Board, System Division or Federation; or, if at a special Convention, by majority vote of the delegates after not less than thirty (30) days' written notice to each of the Subordinate Lodges comprised within such Joint Protective Board, System Division or Federation, or by majority vote of the members in good standing of each of the Subordinate Lodges comprised within said Protective Board, System Division or Federation voting in a membership referendum conducted by secret ballot; or by majority vote of the members of the System Division or Federation Joint Protective Board or similar governing body, pursuant to express authority contained in the System Division's or Federation's Constitution and/or By-Laws; provided, however, that such increase shall be effective only until the next regular Convention of the System Division or Federation.