http://www.bmwe.org Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Latest News mirabyte Feed Writer 1.0 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 06:19:03 -0500 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 06:19:43 -0500 Southfield, MI - Today, the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division-IBT and the National Carriers’ Conference Committee reached a tentative agreement settling all outstanding bargaining issues. The tentative agreement is subject to membership ratification. Details of the agreement will be distributed to the membership in accordance with the BMWED’s bylaws. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2012/PRESS_RELEASE_02022012.pdf Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:27:56 -0500 America’s unionized workers, buffeted by layoffs and stagnating wages, face another phenomenon that is increasingly throwing them on the defensive: lockouts. From the Cooper Tire factory in Findlay, Ohio, to a country club in Southern California and sugar beet processing plants in North Dakota, employers are turning to lockouts to press their unionized workers to grant concessions after contract negotiations deadlock. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2012/Newsclips_01272012.pdf Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:26:21 -0500 INDIANAPOLIS - When Greg Eckert joined the painter’s union in Fort Wayne 25 years ago, 1 in 5 Indiana workers was a dues-paying member of organized labor. Now it is 1 in 9. Declining union membership and rising Republican clout have put Indiana on the edge of becoming the first so-called right-to-work state in an industrial region known for titanic labor battles that paved the way for modern-day contracts, health care, and retirement benefits. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2012/Newsclips_01202012.pdf Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:15:26 -0500 Southfield, MI - The BMWED National Bargaining Committees met last Thursday in Nashville, TN, to discuss the status of current negotiations with the nation's Class I Railroads. BMWED continues to bargain with Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Union Pacific, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern, and Canadian Pacific Railway, over away-from-home expenses for employees required to travel in the service of the railroads. These expense reimbursements have not been adjusted since January 1, 2005. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2012/PressRelease_PEB_0120dfg_1.pdf Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:53:43 -0500 After years of conciliation and one-way "bipartisanship," with Republicans refusing to meet even partway, the President got fed up. The President is finally taking the necessary steps to get the government up and running, doing government's job of protecting citizens from the exploitation by the wealthy and powerful. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2012/Newsclips_01132012.pdf Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:31:56 -0500 The second-to-last week in 2011 was a particularly good one for U.S. railroads. During the week ending Dec. 24, they originated 287,137 carloads, up 11.9 percent, and 217,952 containers and trailers, up 22.9 percent compared with volumes form the same week in 2010, according to the Association of American Railroads (AAR). http://www.bmwed.org/news/2012/Newsclips_01062012.pdf Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:19:37 -0500 The central battleground in the war against workers today is the Indiana Statehouse. Anti-worker lawmakers are frantic to pass a bill that would weaken unions and shrink Indiana's middle class. The legislative fight over the measure could make the Super Bowl look like a stroll in the park. Indiana's Republican leadership is desperate to pass a so-called "right to work" bill before Feb. 5, when Super Bowl XLVI kicks off at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. They want to avoid any negative attention around the game. In the meantime, supporters of this awful bill will say and do anything to get it passed. These politicians have no shame. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-p-hoffa/a-shameful-attack-on-work_b_1188937.html Fri, 06 Jan 2012 11:04:33 -0500 Unions are watching the White House this holiday season in hopes that President Obama will risk a political backlash to prevent a shutdown of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The NLRB will be left with two board members when the recess appointment of Craig Becker expires at the end of the congressional session. The Supreme Court has ruled that the NLRB needs at least three members to issue rulings and regulations. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_12302011.pdf Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:26:09 -0500 WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded $7 million to Georgia and Washington D.C. to continue work on the Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor linking Atlanta and Charlotte, N.C. to Washington, D.C. “With America’s population set to grow by 100 million over the next 40 years, high-speed rail will play a vital role in reducing congestion and meeting America’s long-term transportation challenges,” said Secretary LaHood. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_12162011.pdf Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:07:08 -0500 Plenty of questions have arisen regarding the emerging phenomenon known as Occupy Wall Street. Does the movement help or hurt the cause of organized labor? What is the purpose of the Occupy movement and how is it similar and different from the purpose of Organized Labor? Are we natural allies with similar goals, or are we on completely different trajectories? http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/SeptemberDecember2011_Secretary.pdf Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:15:42 -0500 On January 21, 2010, the U. S. Supreme Court's five conservative Justices ruled that corporations are people. In its 5-4 decision the court ruled in favor of a right-wing conservative group, Citizens United, who had been barred from running ads for a movie attacking Hillary Clinton during the 2008 Presidential campaigns. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/SeptemberDecember2011_VP.pdf Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:15:04 -0500 Saddled with a disappointing report, and recommendations from Presidential Emergency Board 243 (PEB), we have been mobilizing and working very hard to overcome those recommendations. As if imposing on us the UTU insurance give-backs weren't bad enough, the PEB, in their infinite wisdom, referred "away-from-home expenses" back to "local handling". http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/SeptemberDecember2011_President.pdf Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:10:11 -0500 Amtrak National Facts: The name "Amtrak" is the blending of the words "America" and "track." It is properly used in documents with only the first letter capitalized. The railroad is also known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/SeptemberDecember2011_Legislative.pdf Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:29:09 -0500 On December 1, 2011 the BMWED reached agreement with the National Carriers’ Conference Committee (NCCC) for a 60-day extension of what was meant to be the final mandatory 30-day cooling off period, in order to continue bargaining. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/SeptemberDecember2011Journal.pdf Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:07:59 -0500 House T&I Chairman John L. Mica, R-Fla., just introduced a bill that would apply the same voting standard for de-certifying an airline or railroad union as is currently applied for certifying a union. At issue is language in the House-passed FAA reauthorization bill (HR 658) that would roll back a National Mediation Board NMB) ruling making it easier for airline workers to unionize. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_12092011.pdf Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:50:27 -0500 This confirms our understanding with respect to an extension of the thirty day "status quo" period following PEB No. 243's Report to the President, as provided for in Section 10 of the Railway Labor Act, which will expire at 12:01 am on December 6, 2011. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Extend_Cooling_Off.PDF Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:22:52 -0500 FRA is issuing Safety Advisory 2011-03 to remind each railroad bridge worker, railroad, and contractor or subcontractor to a railroad of the dangers posed by walking on unsecured sections of walkway and platform gratings, especially without fall protection. This safety advisory contains various recommendations to the employers of bridge workers to ensure that this issue is addressed by appropriate policies, procedures, and employee compliance. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BridgeWorkerSA_12022011.pdf Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:48:05 -0500 On Nov. 23, the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) announced it sent letters to National Carriers’ Conference Committee (NCCC)-represented railroads covered by Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) recommendations stating that the union plans to extend the “cooling off” period from Dec. 6 to Feb. 10, 2012. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_12022011.pdf Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:05:59 -0500 Diabetes is defined as a disease characterized by high blood glucose levels that result from the body's inability to produce and/or use insulin. Because the associated symptoms seem harmless, diabetes often goes undiagnosed and, therefore, untreated. http://www.bmwed.org/news/HotTopicDiabetesAwarenessFinal_11292011.pdf Fri, 02 Dec 2011 14:35:50 -0500 Washington, DC - Late yesterday the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BMWED) reached agreement with the National Carriers' Conference Committee (NCCC) for a 60 day extension of a mandatory 30 day cooling off period in order to continue bargaining. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/press_release_PEB_12022011.pdf Fri, 02 Dec 2011 11:27:47 -0500 In an anti-government diatribe that would be funny if he weren’t serious, GOP presidential candidate Newt Gingrich told a crowd at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government yesterday that child labor laws are “tragic” and “stupid” and have “done more to create income inequality in the United States than any other single policy.” http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_November_25_2011.pdf Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:10:18 -0500 Holiday 2011-2012 Observance Letter http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Holiday2011through2012Observance.pdf Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:49:59 -0500 Yesterday, the Chief Executive Officers of the Railroads covered by the recommendations of Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 received a letter from me unconditionally extending the cooling off period to February 10, 2012. The BMWED took this action to spare the nation a railroad strike during the busy holiday season, given the still fragile state of the nation’s economy. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BARGAINING_UPDATE_11-231-2011.pdf Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:55:17 -0500 It wasn’t quite November’s first full week, but it was a good start to the month nonetheless for U.S. railroads. During the week ending Nov. 5, they originated 298,465 carloads, up 3.4 percent, and 239,180 containers and trailers, up 3.5 percent compared with volumes from the same week last year, according to the Association of American Railroads (AAR). http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_November_18_2011.pdf Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:03:35 -0500 On Friday, November 18, 2011, after the ballots had been counted, BMWED President Simpson, and the entire Hoffa-Hall slate won their election to International office by a wide margin. BMWED President Freddie Simpson will continue to serve in his capacity as a Teamster International Vice President. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/IBT_election_results.pdf Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:11:55 -0500 Late Thursday evening, four more unions, the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, Sheet Metal Workers International Association, National Conference of Firemen and Oilers, and International Brotherhood of Boilermakers made tentative agreements with the Railroads. I congratulate those Unions on making agreements they believe are in the best interests of their respective memberships. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BARGAINING_UPDATE_11202011.pdf Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:11:22 -0500 Last week, both the Rail Labor Bargaining Coalition (RLBC) and the coalition led by the Transportation Communications International Union (TCU) met with the Railroads to try to reach a voluntary agreement following the release of the report of Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 on November 5, 2011. Bargaining with the RLBC was unproductive. The TCU-led coalition met with the Railroads on Thursday and Friday and has another meeting scheduled for Monday, November 14, 2011. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Bargaining_Update_11-141.pdf Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:10:25 -0500 Five banks that received federal bailout funds during the financial crisis didn't pay income taxes for one or more years between 2008 and 2010, according to an iWatch News analysis of a new study of tax dodgers. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_November_11_2011.pdf Fri, 11 Nov 2011 20:05:56 -0500 Washington, DC – Late Wednesday afternoon, the National Carriers’ Conference Committee (NCCC) categorically rejected the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division’s (BMWED) compromise offer on meals and lodging reimbursement for traveling employees. The BMWED made its compromise offer as an attempt to reach a voluntary settlement of negotiations with the nation’s railroads prior to the end of the “cooling off” period set to expire at 12:01 AM, December 6th. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Press_Release_11112011.pdf Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:05:14 -0500 PEB 243 Final Report http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/PEB_243_Final_Report.pdf Sun, 06 Nov 2011 14:39:29 -0500 Late yesterday, the White House released the report of Presidential Emergency Board No. 243. The full, 101 page report is available on BMWED’s website at www.bmwed.org for download or viewing. The Board made recommendations on wages, health and welfare and supplemental sickness. Additionally, it made recommendations regarding future disposition of BMWED’s craft specific proposals on meals and lodging, travel allowance and rate equity on Norfolk Southern. However, the Board made no monetary recommendations on those issues. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Simpson_PEB_243_Final_Report.pdf Sun, 06 Nov 2011 14:38:46 -0500 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued new regulations today to improve conditions of rail camp cars, backing several recommendations by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division of the Teamsters Rail Conference. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_11042011.pdf Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:35:37 -0500 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued new regulations today to improve conditions of rail camp cars, backing several recommendations by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) of the Teamsters Rail Conference. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/campcarsfra_10312011.pdf Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:01:16 -0500 PEB CLOSINGS - Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 between National Railway Labor Conference. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Railway_mediation_board_transcript10202011.pdf Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:22:35 -0500 Applications are now open for the 2012 Union Plus Scholarship Program, which provides $150,000 in scholarships to union members, their spouses and dependants. To apply, visit UnionPlus.org/Education. This year’s application is entirely online—allowing students to complete their application over time and save their responses. The application deadline is January 31, 2012. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/UnionPlusScholarship_10312012_Article.pdf Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:34:10 -0500 Herman Cain’s bizarre 9-9-9 plan would replace much of the current tax code with a 9 percent individual income tax and a 9 percent sales tax. He calls it a “flat tax.” Next week Rick Perry is set to announce his own version of a flat tax. Former House majority leader Dick Armey – now chairman of Freedom Works, a major backer of the Tea Party funded by the Koch Brothers and other portly felines (I didn’t say “fat cats”) — predicts this will give Perry “a big boost.” http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_102820111.pdf Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:33:08 -0500 Nineteen years ago, when BMW announced a new factory off I-85 just outside of Spartanburg, South Carolina looked like the king of smokestack recruiting. The world’s biggest manufacturer of luxury vehicles would make the city a “Mecca of foreign investment in the United States,” The Independent of London predicted. It would see a rush of industry chasing Munich-based BMW. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_10212011.pdf Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:27:49 -0500 Health & Welfare Presentation to PEB 243 (rebuttal) - October 19th, 2011 http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/RRPEB_RLBC_CRU_Rebuttal20111020.pdf Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:26:07 -0500 Rebuttal, October 19th 2011 - Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 between National Railway Labor Conference http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Railway_mediation_board_10192011.pdf Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:24:54 -0500 Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 between National Railway Labor Conference - October 18th, 2011 http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/RailwayMediationBoard10182011.pdf Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:23:55 -0500 Presidential Emergency Board No. 243 between National Railway Labor Conference http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Mediation_board10172011condensed.pdf Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:21:21 -0500 COLLECTIVE BARGAINING PROCESS UNDER THE RAILWAY LABOR ACT (RLA) - Flow Chart http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Flow_chart10202011.pdf Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:20:10 -0500 The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen Division (BLET) of the Teamster Rail Conference submit these joint comments to the docket in the above-referenced matter. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/JointRCCommentsDraftBigManateeBridge_10202011.pdf Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:12:25 -0500 Statement of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes/IBT Regarding Improvements to Expenses Away From Home http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BMWED_EXPENSES_AWAY_FROM_HOME.pdf Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:43:43 -0500 Statement of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes/IBT Regarding Improvements in the Rest-Day Travel Allowance Paid To Employees Working Away From Home http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BMWED_TRAVEL_ALLOWANCE.pdf Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:43:20 -0500 Statement of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division/IBT Regarding Rectification of Intra-Carrier Rate Inequities On Rail Carriers Controlled By Norfolk Southern http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BMWED_INTRACARRIER_RATES.pdf Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:41:30 -0500 The Senate expects to vote on the FY 2012 THUD spending bill during the week of October 17. At that time Senators will have the opportunity to offer amendments that may adversely impact Amtrak and/or the HSIPR program. http://www.bmwed.org/news/eactivist/Senate_Amtrak_Article_10172011.pdf Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:27:05 -0500 The images of row upon row of stoic airline pilots, fed-up students and thousands of Americans marching through downtown Manhattan have captivated the nation. Seemingly overnight, the organic, scrappy protests in the financial center of the world have blossomed into a national movement from Chicago to Los Angeles, calling attention to the gross inequality in our society and the unwillingness of our politicians to correct this imbalance. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_October_14_2011.pdf Fri, 14 Oct 2011 21:01:53 -0500 The TEAMStar Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program is designed to help Medicare eligible members, retirees and their spouses reduce their prescription drug costs and insure against high prescription drug expenses in the future. The open enrollment period for TEAMStar Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program runs from October 15, 2011 until December 7, 2011 http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Medicare2012.pdf Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:25:57 -0500 Yesterday, the Opinion and Award issued by distinguished academic and arbitrator Michael Gottesman in the arbitration between the Sheet Metal Workers International Association and United Transportation Union became available to interested parties. Malcolm Futhey , president of the former United Transportation Union, had conducted a three and a half year campaign to derail a merger between the UTU and SMWIA which had been overwhelmingly ratified by UTU’s membership. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/UTU_SMWIA_final.pdf Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:50:12 -0500 I am pleased to advise that, pursuant to BMWED Resolution #43 adopted by the 2006 National Division Convention, two annual scholarships in the amount of $2,000.00 each will be awarded in November to BMWED members or eligible dependents, with preference given to applicants enrolled or scheduled to enroll in an accredited college or university in the pursuit of labor-related studies. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Scholarship_application_packet_2011.pdf Wed, 12 Oct 2011 03:09:05 -0500 The nation's rail carriers participating in national bargaining released their presentation to Presidential Emergency Board 243 today. The rail carriers, who have reaped record profits in a time of economic downturn, present arguments before the PEB that can only be described by the BMWED as greedy, and disrespectful to their employees. Opening arguments before PEB 243 will begin Thursday morning, October 13, 2011, in Washington, DC http://www.bmwed.org Wed, 12 Oct 2011 03:05:51 -0500 On Friday, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that he signed an agreement with New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie calling for the state to reimburse the federal government $95 million for money that was supposed to be spent building the Access to the Region’s Core (ARC) project. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_10072011.pdf Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:38:54 -0500 The hearings before Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) 243 will commence with opening arguments on Thursday, October 13, 2011. The hearings will be held in Washington, DC, and the formal proceedings are scheduled to continue through October 20, 2011. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Press_Release_PEB_2.pdf Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:06:41 -0500 President Obama appointed a five member Presidential Emergency Board (PEB-243) today, narrowly averting a national freight rail strike, or lock-out. On September 6, 2011, the National Mediation Board (NMB) released the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division of the Teamsters (BMWED/IBT), and ten other rail labor unions from mediation, and, pursuant to Section 5 of the Railway Labor Act, the parties were in a 30 day cooling off period that would have expired at 12:01 AM, October 7, had the President not appointed the PEB. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Press_Release_PEB.pdf Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:27:54 -0500 Ohio's firefighters are at the center of an escalating fight over an effort to repeal a state law that would limit collective-bargaining rights for 350,000 public employees. Supporters say the law would help cities save jobs, and opponents say it could endanger safety. A Nov. 8 referendum is set on whether to repeal the law, which passed the state's legislature this year. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_100320111.pdf Fri, 07 Oct 2011 01:33:26 -0500 Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Administrator Joseph C. Szabo, a fifth-generation railroader, invites rank-and file rail workers the opportunity to join him for a town hall meeting to engage in a frank and open safety discussion. All craft employees are invited to participate. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/RailTownHallDiscussion_10032011.pdf Fri, 07 Oct 2011 01:29:44 -0500 Congress may have passed a surface transportation bill extension last week, but the fight for a long-term reauthorization is far from over. The House has proposed a six-year bill that would cut public transit funding by 30 percent — a move that, if approved, would mean cuts to transit service, increased fares, overcrowding, longer wait times, service delays and further deteriorating infrastructure, public transit supporters say. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_September_23_20111.pdf Wed, 28 Sep 2011 16:15:53 -0500 Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney appeared in North Charleston today with his former rival and newest supporter, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty. Pawlenty praised Romney as “the most capable, most knowledgeable, most electable candidate in the race so far.” http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_091620111.pdf Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:35:14 -0500 WHEREAS, September 17, 2011 marks the 224th anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America by the Constitutional Convention; and, is fitting and, proper to accord official recognition to this magnificent document and its memorable anniversary; and, to the patriotic celebrations which will commemorate the occasion; and... http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Proclamation_2011_Constitution_Week_09132011.pdf Wed, 21 Sep 2011 10:56:12 -0500 Prostate cancer is a very slow growing disease and is the most common form of cancer in men. More alarming, more than 30,000 men die of this disease in the U.S. alone each year. In the beginning stages of prostate cancer, the symptoms are usually non-existent which is why understanding the symptoms and risk factors is so important. All men should have a conversation with their physician in order to determine if they are a candidate for yearly prostate cancer screening. To read more about prostate cancer, including the risk factors for developing this disease, follow the link below to the "Hot Topics" section of the Railroad Information Depot where you can select the article. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Hot_Topic_ProstateCancerAwareness09162011.pdf Wed, 21 Sep 2011 10:55:05 -0500 Beginning September 26, 2011, Railroad Enrollment Services will begin mailing the annual enrollment packages to eligible Railroad employees for coverage under The Railroad Employees National Health and Welfare Plan (H&W Plan). Enrollment in the H&W Plan will provide coverage for Railroad employees and their eligible dependents effective January 1, 2012. The enrollment period for the H&W Plan will begin on October 3, 2011 and run through November 4, 2011. Railroad Enrollment Services must receive the completed open enrollment form no later than November 4, 2011. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/UnitedHealthCare_OpenEnrollment2012.pdf Wed, 21 Sep 2011 09:22:02 -0500 Jim Hoffa, the president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, on Sunday blasted American companies that are not spending their capital in the U.S. as “unpatriotic.” During an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Hoffa said companies like Apple have a responsibility to put Americans back to work and that encouraging them to do so should be part of President Barack Obama’s jobs plan. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_09092011.pdf Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:10:19 -0500 As I write this column, Hurricane Irene is roaring up the east coast portending destruction in its wake. States from Florida to Maine are preparing for the worse and bracing for the storm’s furry and its aftermath. On the front lines of this storm are thousands of municipal, state, and federal employees who are risking life and limb to evacuate coastal areas, engage in search and rescue, secure abandoned buildings, clear roadways, and restore electrical power. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/JulyAugust2011_Secretary.pdf Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:15:21 -0500 Why is it that so many young people have no idea the importance of a union? A lot of older generation union leaders are asking themselves this question. Maybe the older generation hasn't passed on to them the history and struggle of the labor movement. Or, maybe the number of union households have so dwindled that we are now paying the price. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/JulyAugust2011_VP.pdf Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:14:47 -0500 After more than a quarter century as a full-time union officer, I recently found myself at odds with my brothers in leadership positions with the United Transportation Union (UTU). This was the first time that I had publicly disagreed with another rail union in an effort to thwart their actions. I would like to say that it was a tough decision for me but the truth is - it was not. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/JulyAugust2011_President.pdf Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:04:04 -0500 The International Brotherhood of Teamsters held the 28th International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, June 27 - July 1, 2011. The Convention opened on Monday morning with a roar as a group of Teamsters led the opening ceremonies by riding their Harley-Davidson motorcycles throughout the convention hall. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/JulyAugust2011Journal.pdf Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:17:09 -0500 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared a major disaster for the state of Texas opening the way for the use of federal disaster funds for people affected by Wild fires that occurred on August 30, 2011 and continuing. Assistance is available to individuals and households in the following counties who may have experienced a loss due to this disaster: http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/NOTICETOPOST_Disaster_Description_09122011.pdf Wed, 14 Sep 2011 13:15:44 -0500 Today, the National Mediation Board released the six national rail labor organizations, comprising the Rail Labor Bargaining Coalition (RLBC), from further mediation in their dispute over changes in national labor agreements covering employees of some twenty-eight Class I freight railroads represented in bargaining by the National Carriers’ Conference Committee (NCCC). http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/NMB_Release_from_Mediation_9-6-11.pdf Fri, 09 Sep 2011 17:36:16 -0500 On this Labor Day 2011, while we enjoy our negotiated paid holiday with family and friends, let us pause to honor workers and their labor. On this Labor Day, let us also pause to remember all those who lost their lives building and defending our nation at home and abroad. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Labor_Day_Message_2011.pdf Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:47:43 -0500 U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced nearly $745 million for construction along the Northeast Corridor (NEC) to upgrade some of the most heavily-used sections. The NEC will receive $449.94 million to upgrade electrical systems and tracks between Trenton, NJ and New York City, resulting in improved on-time performance and reliability, and an initial increase in top operating speeds up to 160 mph and future maximum speeds of 186 mph. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_08262011_2.pdf Thu, 01 Sep 2011 19:44:30 -0500 The long-time union leaders of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters realized that they needed to train the next generation of union leadership. They turned to the Volunteer State Community College Division of Continuing Education and Economic Development to combine a diverse set of subjects into an intensive two-week training session, bringing in union members from across the country. http://www.volstate.edu/Stories/?id=295 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 02:24:56 -0500 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared a major disaster for the state of PUERTO RICO opening the way for the use of federal disaster funds for people affected by Hurricane Irene that occurred on August 27, 2011. Assistance is available to individuals and households in the following counties who may have experienced a loss due to this disaster: Caguas, Canovanas, Carolina, Cayey, Loiza, Lupquillo and San Juan Municipios. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/PR-STATE-NOTICE_TO_POST.pdf Thu, 01 Sep 2011 19:43:26 -0500 They came, they toiled -- and now most of them are gone. As the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act enters its final weeks, Savannah River Site's stimulus-funded cleanup projects are winding down. "They're wrapping up this month, and next month," said Jim Giusti, a Department of Energy spokesman at the site. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News08192011.pdf Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:18:46 -0500 On August 8, 2011, the Regional Administrator of Occupational Safety and Health Administration Region 4 issued an order requiring Norfolk Southern railroad to pay $20,000 in compensatory damages, $75,000 in punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees to Eric Nelson, a Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) member employed by Norfolk Southern. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Norfolksouthernbmwed_08172011.pdf Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:55:39 -0500 Outside Verizon corporate headquarters in downtown Manhattan, a group of more than 40 union employees gathered wearing red shirts and placards proclaiming "CWA on Strike For Middle Class Jobs." http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_08122011.pdf Wed, 17 Aug 2011 20:51:14 -0500 In response to Section 403 of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, BMWED mailed a Track Inspection survey to over 1,500 BMWED-represented track inspectors seeking their views and opinions regarding the “real world” challenges, pressures, and barriers that may affect an inspector’s ability to fulfill their safety-critical responsibilities. On August 3, 2011, BMWED President Freddie N. Simpson submitted a copy of the results of that survey to various Congressional Committees, the Secretary of Transportation, and the FRA Administrator. Please click on the following links to view a copy of the BMWED Track Inspection Report and cover letter to FRA. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Administrator_Szabo_coverletter_Letterhead.pdf Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:36:06 -0500 In response to Section 403 of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, BMWED mailed a Track Inspection survey to over 1,500 BMWED-represented track inspectors seeking their views and opinions regarding the “real world” challenges, pressures, and barriers that may affect an inspector’s ability to fulfill their safety-critical responsibilities. On August 3, 2011, BMWED President Freddie N. Simpson submitted a copy of the results of that survey to various Congressional Committees, the Secretary of Transportation, and the FRA Administrator. Please click on the following links to view a copy of the BMWED Track Inspection Report and cover letter to FRA. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Track_Inspector_Report_070611.pdf Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:31:36 -0500 Recent web postings and leaflets from the UTU denounce the “naysayers” that criticize the United Transportation Union’s tentative agreement with the Freight Carriers. Implicit in the criticism is that the “naysayers” won’t identify themselves and are spreading half-truths about the tentative agreement. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/BMWED_Response_to_UTU.pdf Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:50:18 -0500 For American workers -- both those employed and those looking for work -- the deal reached over the weekend to stave off an American default could spell disaster, labor economists say. The deal struck between Obama and congressional leaders, announced Sunday night, may have averted a historic U.S. default, but the $917 billion dollars in cuts planned for the next decade could worsen an already stagnant labor market. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Newsclips_August_5_2011.pdf Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:20:31 -0500 If the debt ceiling situation is resolved, Congress will likely be in recess beginning on August 8 and ending after Labor Day. At this time, members of the House of Representatives and Senate will be in their home districts and states conducting meetings, appearing at events and meeting with their constituents. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/rail_conference_legislative_memo.pdf Sat, 06 Aug 2011 22:15:24 -0500 Even as the U.S. economy shed more than 3.3 million jobs during 2009 and 2010, railroad employment shot up by 5.2 percent—a trend industry experts expect will continue. That’s why budget cuts recently proposed by the head of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee come at an especially bad time. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_07292011.pdf Wed, 03 Aug 2011 01:09:33 -0500 The United Transportation Union's leadership recently signed a tentative national agreement with the nation's rail carriers represented by the National Carriers' Conference Committee (NCCC). In their efforts to sell this bad deal they continue to distribute misleading material to their membership. Please find enclosed a 33 page point by point rebuttal to the recent information distributed by the United Transportation Union (UTU) concerning the tentative agreement. This document provides a factual response to the information they are distributing to their membership and can be found at our website, www.bmwe.org, in a slide show presentation. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/UTU_Flyer_Press.pdf Fri, 29 Jul 2011 03:39:26 -0500 On behalf of the 1.4 million men and women of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, I am urging you to oppose any agreement to raise the debt ceiling that would come on the backs of the middle-class, seniors, children, and people with disabilities. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Senate_Letter_on_Debt_Ceiling_07-22-11.pdf Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:58:29 -0500 The United Transportation Union (UTU) recently signed a tentative national agreement that will be sent to their membership in August for ratification. This agreement, should it ratify, will cover the six-year period from 2010-2016. The deal not only contains an inferior wage package but also provides the carriers with a number of healthcare give-backs that would gut the healthcare plan as we know it today http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/UTU-2011-TA1-TRUTH.pdf Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:39:29 -0500 Dear Brothers and Sisters: In my previous letter of July 13, 2011, I informed you of obstacles that threaten our national bargaining efforts. This is due to the bad deal that the United Transportation Union's (UTU) leadership agreed to that the rail carriers are now trying to force onto the rest of rail labor. http://www.bmwed.org/news/eactivist/BMWED_Vote_Package_July_22.pdf Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:38:25 -0500 WHEREAS, the Teamsters Rail Conference, comprised of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division, supports the development of high-speed passenger rail in America; http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Julyjournal_2011_HSRresolution.pdf Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:37:10 -0500 The United Transportation Union (UTU) recently signed a tentative national agreement that will be sent to their membership in August for ratification. This agreement, should it ratify, will cover the six-year period from 2010-2016. The deal not only contains an inferior wage package but also provides the carriers with a number of healthcare give-backs that would gut the healthcare plan as we know it today. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Just_the_Facts_Cover_Letter_final.pdf Sat, 23 Jul 2011 10:54:31 -0500 James R. Hoffa became a Teamster member in 1934, served as General President for 14 years, and, in recognition of his tireless service to the Union and its members, was honored as General President Emeritus for life. At the November 1999 General Executive Board meeting, General Secretary-Treasurer C. Thomas Keegel presented a resolution to establish a new scholarship fund in recognition of Hoffa’s outstanding contributions to the Union. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/2011_English_JRH_Essay_Application_and_prelude.pdf Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:38:05 -0500 A Deal That Strips Healthcare and Provides An Inferior Wage Package May Be Good Enough For The UTU Leadership - But Not The Rest Of Rail Labor. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Just_the_Facts_final.pdf Sat, 23 Jul 2011 10:55:57 -0500 BMWED President Freddie Simpson and Northeastern System Federation Vice General Chairman Renato Rufo Addressed more than 1800 Teamster Delegates gathered at the 28th Convention of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters last week and spoke in support of Amtrak and high speed rail resolutions. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Simpson_Rufo_comments.pdf Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:37:36 -0500 Fourteen million, in round numbers — that is how many Americans are now officially out of work. Word came Friday from the Labor Department that, despite all the optimistic talk of an economic recovery, unemployment is going up, not down. The jobless rate rose to 9.2 percent in June. What gives? And where, if anywhere, is the outrage? http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News07152011.pdf Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:54:08 -0500 WHEREAS, the future of Amtrak is uncertain and many within the federal government, Amtrak management, railroads, and private industry have initiated policies and practices which are detrimental to members of the Teamsters Rail Conference at Amtrak; http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Julyjournal_2011_Amtrakresolution.pdf Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:36:38 -0500 As previously reported, the FY 2011 budget has been the subject of multiple Continuing Resolutions (CRs). On April 14, the U. S. House of Representatives and the Senate passed H.R. 1473, the Department of Defense and Full Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011, funding the government through September 30, 2011. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/MayJune2011_Legislative.pdf Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:55:26 -0500 According to the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate currently sits at 9.0 percent. To put that in perspective, 13.7 million Americans are out of work, and that number doesn't factor in those who have dropped from the rolls or those who can only find work part-time. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/MayJune2011_VP.pdf Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:54:34 -0500 The Brotherhood is preparing for the future in many deliberate and concrete ways. We have established a 10-year plan to train upcoming officers and activists, we have consummated strategic voluntary mergers among system federations/divisions, and we have taken an active role in the support and development of high speed rail. Last month, National Division took another bold step towards the future by purchasing a new headquarters building in Novi, MI to house the operation of the National Division. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/MayJune2011_Secretary.pdf Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:53:39 -0500 If you voted for one of the politicians who are now attempting to kill funding for high speed rail, or are trying to privatize passenger rail, you may have voted against your own self-preservation. A railroader voting with these politicians, many backed by the Tea Party, is like an Exxon/Mobile executive voting for the Green Party. http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/MayJune2011_President.pdf Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:52:15 -0500 http://www.bmwed.org/journal/2011/MayJune2011Journal.pdf Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:25:41 -0500 Even as passenger rail projects are creating new jobs and generating economic growth across the country, these successful programs are under attack. We need your help to protect important investments in America's future. Some members of Congress are threatening to zero-out Amtrak and high-speed rail in the 2012 budget. http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/2228/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=7154 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 13:28:47 -0500 A resolution to support high-speed rail and the union jobs that should go with it was passed on June 30 by 1,800 delegates to the Teamsters 28th International Convention with full support from its 70,000-member Rail Conference. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News07082011.pdf Sun, 10 Jul 2011 13:11:58 -0500 President Obama's fiscal policies are a mess. Whatever one thinks of the need for stimulus in a severe recession, it is obvious that running trillion-dollar deficits for years on end is unsustainable. Moreover, his proposals are dishonest. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office concluded that his proposed 2012 budget underestimates spending while overestimating revenues. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/news_07012011.pdf Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:31:13 -0500 The US Department of Energy (DOE) has shipped large amounts and a variety of radioactive material by rail for years. The number of rail shipments is expected to increase in coming years. With the increase in rail shipments comes the increased risk for rail incidents involving radioactive material. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/DOE_Training_Flyer_07-11.pdf Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:49:13 -0500 Southfield, MI, June 24 - The United States Supreme Court rendered a decision yesterday rejecting an argument by CSX Transportation that would have made it more difficult for railroad workers to be compensated when they are injured or killed on duty. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/FELA_SC_Decision.pdf Sun, 26 Jun 2011 17:39:46 -0500 It is usually free-market Republicans who zealously defend what is commonly known as the “takings clause” in the Fifth Amendment, which says the government cannot take private property for public purposes without fair compensation. But House Democrats are borrowing the constitutional provision to use it against a GOP proposal to privatize Amtrak. http://www.bmwed.org/news/eactivist/Democrats_take_Constitutional_Track-06232011.pdf Sat, 25 Jun 2011 14:04:05 -0500 We are writing to express in the strongest possible language our opposition to your proposal to privatize Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC). The proposal is bad for the economy, will threaten a service that is vital to the well being of America, ignores the facts and history of passenger rail service in America and threatens to strip the value of the public investment in perhaps one of the most complicated and important pieces of public infrastructure in the world. http://www.americanprogressaction.org/issues/2011/2011-0621_Mica-Shuster_ltr_re_Proposal_to_Privatize_Amtraks_NE_Corridor.pdf Fri, 24 Jun 2011 15:05:08 -0500 I write you on behalf of the 1.4 million members of the Teamsters Union, and especially those who work on our nation's railroads, to voice our strong opposition to the Intercity Passenger Rail in America Act. http://www.americanprogressaction.org/issues/2011/Mica_Rahall_ltr_pdf_6.21.11.pdf Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:58:12 -0500 http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/RLBC_FINAL_Rejection_Statement_6-21-11.pdf Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:54:07 -0500 On May 26, 2011, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure held a hearing on "Opening the Northeast Corridor to Private Competition for Development of High-Speed Rail." At that hearing, you circulated a chart derived from Amtrak annual and monthly reports which showed a decrease in ridership on the Northeast Corridor (NEC) from 10.6 million riders in 1977 to 10.5 million riders in 2010. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Brown_letter_on_Amtrak_Ridership.pdf Thu, 23 Jun 2011 20:37:28 -0500 Discussion Draft. June 15th, 2011. To develop high-speed rail in the Northeast Corridor through a public-private partnership, and to encourage private sector competition on intercity passenger rail corridors. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Rail_Competition_Bill_Discussion_Draft.pdf Thu, 23 Jun 2011 20:32:20 -0500 At times, workers may be required to work in hot environments for long periods. When the human body’s unable to maintain a normal temperature, heat-related illnesses can occur and may result in death. This fact sheet provides information to employers on measures they should take to prevent worker illnesses and death caused by heat stress. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/heat_stress_Fact_Sheet.pdf Thu, 23 Jun 2011 20:51:38 -0500 TCU and its coalition partners reject the terms of the tentative UTU agreement with the national freight carriers as a basis for voluntarily settling the national contract. The other coalition involved in national negotiations has also rejected the UTU agreement as a pattern for settlement. That means that every union in national bargaining has now rejected the UTU tentative agreement as a basis for settlement. We believe that 17% in wage increases over six years is not a fair settlement in light of the carriers’ record profitability, nor do we accept the need for the radical restructuring of our health plan. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/UTU_Agmt_Special_Alert.pdf Thu, 23 Jun 2011 17:43:24 -0500 Every once in a while a politician comes up with an idea that’s so bad, so wrongheaded, that you’re almost grateful. For really bad ideas can help illustrate the extent to which policy discourse has gone off the rails. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/news_06172011.pdf Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:08:21 -0500 On June 2nd, the UTU released the terms of its tentative deal with the freight railroads. The railroads are calling that agreement the “pattern” for the industry. We believe that agreement is a pattern for economic disaster that exposes the members we are charged to protect with the prospect of crippling healthcare costs when they are sick and often unable to work. At a time when the freight railroads are recording all-time record profits, the UTU agreed with the railroads to shift the cost of getting sick onto those who need protection the most. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/WHY_THE_BMWED_SEEKS_RELEASE_final_2.pdf Sun, 19 Jun 2011 17:39:06 -0500 http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/TRC_RLBC_seek_release_update_06162011.pdf Sat, 18 Jun 2011 22:47:42 -0500 The Rail Labor Bargaining Coalition (RLBC), for and on behalf of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, National Conference of Firemen & Oilers and the the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, in accordance with Section 5, First (b) of the Railway Labor Act, 45 U.S.C 155, First (b), requests the National Mediation Board to end mediation and proffer arbitration to the parties. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/Rail_Labor_Bargaining_Coalition-06.13.2011.PDF Fri, 17 Jun 2011 11:14:26 -0500 House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman John Mica (R-FL) and Rail Subcommittee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) announced at a Congressional hearing that they are preparing legislation they believe will speed up development of high-speed rail and reduce high taxpayer subsidization of the project. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/news_06072011.pdf Fri, 10 Jun 2011 02:32:05 -0500 I urge you to fully support President Obama’s high speed rail initiative which will serve to reduce dependency on foreign oil and congestion on our highways, help improve our economy, and create much needed jobs http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/HSR_Sample_letter.pdf Wed, 08 Jun 2011 22:21:59 -0500 On Friday, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced the availability of $7.6 billion in annual funding for states, local communities and transit agencies nationwide to help maintain transit and rail operations, as well as to fund capital construction and maintenance projects. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_05272011.pdf Fri, 03 Jun 2011 04:44:55 -0500 In the first quarter, intermodal volume totaled 3.3 million units, up 9 percent compared with first-quarter 2010 volume, according to the Intermodal Association of North America’s (IANA) latest “Intermodal Market Trends & Statistics” report. International container traffic rose 9.6 percent to 1.76 million units, marking the fifth-straight quarterly increase, the report states. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News05202011.pdf Thu, 26 May 2011 03:30:20 -0500 Responding to news reports that highlighted potential terrorist interest in, and threats to, North American railroads outlined by documents and other media seized by U.S. Special Forces in Pakistan, the Association of American Railroads assured the public that measures have been taken, and will continue to be taken, to increase railroad security since Sept. 11, 2001, when terrorist attacks occurred in New York, Washington, D.C., and on board a jet plane that eventually crashed in Pennsylvania. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_05132011.pdf Thu, 19 May 2011 06:06:04 -0500 The United Transportation Union Friday said a tentative new five-year national rail agreement covering wages, benefits and working conditions has been reached between the UTU and the National Carriers' Conference Committee (NCCC). The tentative agreement is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2010, and extends through Dec. 31, 2014. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_05062011.pdf Thu, 12 May 2011 03:11:17 -0500 Kansas City Southern Thursday reported first-quarter net income of $63 million, or 58 cents per diluted share, compared with $33 million, or 34 cents per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2010. Revenue of $489 million was up 12% compared with the corresponding 2010 period, based in part on carload volumes that were 7% higher than in the first quarter of 2010. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_04292011.pdf Wed, 04 May 2011 05:27:12 -0500 Six months after voters sent Republicans in large numbers to Congress and many statehouses, it is possible to see the full landscape of destruction that their policies would cause — much of which has already begun. If it was not clear before, it is obvious now that the party is fully engaged in a project to dismantle the foundations of the New Deal and the Great Society, and to liberate business and the rich from the inconveniences of oversight and taxes. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_04222011.pdf Thu, 28 Apr 2011 07:32:22 -0500 Kansas City Southern has entered into a comprehensive new agreement for tie disposal with St. Louis-based Wood Energy Group, a wholly-owned subsidiaryof Banyan Rail Services Inc. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/news_04152011.pdf Thu, 21 Apr 2011 15:06:26 -0500 Ninety six miles of tracks and a quarter-million railroad ties for future high(er)-speed Amtrak trains will be installed in Central Illinois starting the weekend of April 2-3, leading to the substitution of chartered buses for some Lincoln Service trains for several weeks and the detour of the Texas Eagle between Chicago and St. Louis. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_04082011.pdf Thu, 14 Apr 2011 06:19:57 -0500 On Friday, Canadian Pacific announced plans to invest $100 million in North Dakota between the beginning of 2011 and 2012 to add network capacity, enhance service and expand resources. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/NewS_04012011.pdf Thu, 07 Apr 2011 07:26:10 -0500 Rail car deliveries almost doubled from third quarter levels and orders advanced on the already healthy levels reported last October. Trinity Industries announced that their deliveries doubled and Greenbrier reported substantially higher deliveries http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/02252011_NEWS.PDF Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:35:50 -0500 Union Pacific Railroad plans to spend $6.9 million to upgrade a 30-mile line between Yuma and Welton, Ariz. The project calls for removing and installing new rail and more than 47,000 ties, and spreading 18,000 tons of ballast. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/02182011_NEWS.PDF Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:25:23 -0500 U. S. railroads reported 705 fatalities in 2010, up 9.5% from the 645 reported in 2009, according to a preliminary count released by the Federal Railroad Administration’s Office of Safety Analysis. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/02112011_NEWS.PDF Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:42:26 -0500 House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman John Mica and several other key members of that panel from both political parties are warning the Surface Transportation Board against taking steps that hurt railroads' ability to invest in their networks. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/02142011_NEWS.PDF Sun, 13 Feb 2011 08:34:04 -0500 The nation’s labor unions saw another steep decline in membership last year, even as the economy showed signs of recovery and job losses slowed. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2011/News_01282011.pdf Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:45:00 -0500 Does the National Labor Relations Board Even Matter? If so, can Lafe Solomon, its new general counsel, make it properly enforce labor laws? http://www.bmwed.org/news/2010/01212011_NEWS.PDF Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:54:44 -0500 The Association of American Railroads Tuesday said 2010 saw U.S. freight carload traffic in 2010 rose 7.3%, to 14.8 million total carloads, compared with 13.8 million carloads in 2009. Total U.S. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2010/01142011_NEWS.PDF Fri, 21 Jan 2011 07:52:01 -0500 The seven largest freight railroads mildly increased their net hiring in November even as the overall U.S. jobless rate increased, the Surface Transportation Board reported. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2010/01072011_NEWS.PDF Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:40:13 -0500 In November, not only did the U.S. Class I workforce grow on both a month-over-month and year-over-year basis, but so did all six workforce segments — the first time that happened in 2010. http://www.bmwed.org/news/2010/122320010_news.pdf Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:42:20 -0500