Daily news updates august/september www.ble-t.org ocomotive 2 013 n g i n ee r s r a i n m e n e w s LE & T N Volume 27, Issue 6 Published by the BLET, a division of the Rail Conference,• International Brotherhood of Teamsters Heath FSA open enrollment begins October 1: Enrollment must reach 5% or benefit may be lost see pg. 7

From left: Ron Mills, BLET General Chairman; Dale King, Tacoma Rail Superintendent; and Mike Twombly, BLET Cameras Vice President. in the Cab Federal judge sides with KCS on inward-facing cameras n an Opinion released on July 25, the District Court in Shreveport, La. ruled that the deci- sion by Kansas City (KCSR) to install two inward-facing cameras in the cabs of its locomotives presents a “minor” dispute under the Railway LaborI Act, paving the way for the railroad to install the cameras immediately. The “minor” dispute ruling is significant be- cause the Railway Labor Act prevents Unions from exercising self-help over minor disputes. The finding by Judge Elizabeth Erny Foote against the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the United Trans- portation Union (now SMART Transportation Division) was that the Carrier had an arguable contractual justification for its actions. Accord- ing to the ruling, the contractual justification is based on the Carrier’s existing use of station- BLET, Tacoma Rail sign ary surveillance cameras in various train yards and other locations, inward-facing cameras in crew vans that transport KCSR crews to and new 5-year agreement from train assignments, and procedures embers of the past contracts that he has set- for monitoring and recording phone calls be- Brotherhood of tled was the key to putting tween train crew employees and crew manage- Locomotive En- this contract together. His ment regarding reporting to work. The Judge gineersM and Trainmen have professionalism and insight also held that it was not “frivolous to argue that signed a new five-year con- into the changes that we the safety challenges posed by employees us- tract with Tacoma Rail, ret- were making were invalu- ing personal electronic devices on the job ne- roactive to July 1, 2012. able. We couldn’t have done cessitate the camera and review system pro- This agreement covers this without Mike’s help.” posed by KCSR.” about 20 locomotive engi- BLET’s Division 238 in Ta- Once it was determined the case was a “mi- neers and contains a signing coma, Wash., represents nor” dispute, the Unions then argued for a “sta- bonus and significant members from both the tus quo” injunction pending resolution of the wage and paid time off im- BNSF Railway and Tacoma dispute before an arbitrator. Judge Foote denied provements, as well as health Rail. Tacoma Rail engineers the Unions’ argument. and welfare benefits equal to ratified and signed the agree- BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce ex- other city workers in Taco- ment on June 10, 2013, at the pressed disappointment at both aspects of the ma, Wash. The agreement carrier offices at the Tide From left: General Chairman Mills and Vice President Twombly. ruling, but vowed that the Union would contin- also provides (for the first Flats yard facility in Taco- ue the fight. “The Judge’s ruling is a big disap- time) regular 5-day bid as- Vice Chairman Marcus state of Washington.” ma, Wash. pointment, but in this day and age, it comes as signments, a job applica- Mazique, who were assist- Vice President Twombly Tacoma Rail has more no real surprise,” Pierce said. “It is extremely dif- tion method of assigning ed by National Vice Presi- said, “This outstanding than 100 employees and op- ficult to convince any federal court that an RLA work, a displacement rule, dent Mike Twombly, for a job agreement is the byproduct erates 14 locomotives over dispute is ‘major.’ We will continue to assist set lunch periods and an ex- well done. of good faith bargaining on 200 miles of track in great- the KCS General Chairmen in their struggle. As tra list with a 48 hour guar- “I thank these Brothers both sides of the table and er Tacoma and Olympia, the Judge explained, ‘At the end of the day, the antee. In addition, the agree- for their hard work in obtain- recognizes the leadership and Wash. The railroad servic- Unions may prevail regarding interpretation of ment has improved discipline, ing a superior contract,” Pres- hard work of BLET General es three major ports, K- the [Collective Bargaining Agreement].’ We will claims, and grievance rules. ident Pierce said. “Tacoma Chairman Ron Mills and his Line, Hyundai, and PCT now do our utmost to prove to an arbitrator that BLET National President Rail is unique in that it committee.” Evergreen container freight, this outrageous intrusion in the lives of locomo- Dennis R. Pierce recognized is owned by the City of Ta- General Chairman Mills and interchanges with the tive engineers and trainmen is well beyond what the negotiating team of Gen- coma and operated as a pub- said, “Vice President Twom- BNSF Railway and Union the contract allows KCSR to do.” • eral Chairman Ron Mills and lic utility by the city and the bly’s vast knowledge of all the Pacific. •

BLET President’s Message 2015 Triennial Elections Photo Albums Why I am a Proud A reminder that continuous good 2013 EUMA and IWC Union Member pg. 2 standing is required for 24 months pg. 3 pgs. 5 & 6 • Register for News Flash email alerts at: www.ble-t.org • 2 www.ble-t.org

BLET President’s Message by Dennis R. Pierce Why I am a Proud Union Member s you know by now, or in their off duty time, and this their rights to work assignments the BLET National Newsletter message is to again based on their seniority, and Division launched a invite those members to be more they lost all rights to a hearing ca mpaign ma ny involved in their union. before being terminated. Amonths ago to internally mobi- As I have shared this message I would ask each member to lize our members, young and old, across the country, I have had stop and think about your own to be more interested and more many members ask candid and employer and the way it treats involved in our union. Our direct questions not only as to you now, even with union rep- “Proud to be American, Proud why they should be involved, but resentation. Without represen- to be Union” campaign has made many who have never worked in tation, imagine the assignments a real difference in that internal a union represented work place at your terminal being awarded mobilization effort, and the in- ask why they should even be in not by seniority, but instead teraction I have had with mem- a union at all. It is apparent from based upon the whims of a lo- bers across the country has con- some of these exchanges that the cal trainmaster. Imagine the em- vinced me that our efforts are forces that are waging the war ployer having the right to fire making a difference. on working class Americans have you only because that same That is not to say that we have done a very good job of turning trainmaster decided you were a accomplished our goal that all working class Americans against problem because you considered members take an active interest unions. That is true in spite of a safe work place to be more im- in their union, or that our work the fact that it is only because portant than a dangerous work- towards that goal will stop. To the there is a “union pay scale” that place where production was the contrary, we have much work to the wages and benefits paid to President Pierce at the 2013 SWCM in New Orleans. only priority. Imagine that same do, and the Officers that I am non-union employees as high as tiations. At the point in time that These employees were within trainmaster setting your pay proud to serve with on the Advi- they are. In fact, the ripple effect the union could be challenged a stone’s throw of having the con- thousands of dollars a year less sory Board are continuing in their unions create throughout the as the representative, generally tractual protections provided by than his favorite employee’s pay. efforts to be out in the field, meet- economy is the very reason that two years after the union was a seniority roster and a due pro- That is just a piece of what the ing with the membership to hear the corporate interests who work first designated, WATCO man- cess rule for discipline, but the non-union railroad world looks first-hand about the issues im- to destroy labor unions are wag- agement started a propaganda absence of the due process rule like, and I am certain that all portant to them. Whether it be ing this war. Their goal is actu- campaign designed to convince during the bargaining period is BLET-represented operating em- our attendance at a Division meet- ally quite simple: less for work- its employees to dump the union. what allowed the railroad to ter- ployees can relate to how swift- ing, a General Committee Meet- ing class Americans means more That effort gained steam large- minate almost every employee ly your work experience would ing, a State Legislative Board for corporate America. ly due to the Carrier’s own re- who originally voted for BLET change if you were not protect- meeting, or at a Town Hall meet- It is also clear to me that we fusal to bargain in good faith on representation. By their own mis- ed by a contract collectively bar- ing organized by several Divi- have an obligation to provide an- a first agreement. The union’s guided choice, the remaining em- gained by your union. sions, I remain convinced that swers to those who have fallen demands included a seniority ployees are now at-will employ- My comments are not to sug- our membership will better un- victim to the anti-union rheto- roster — something most of us ees with no protections from gest that a labor union will ever derstand our mission as a union ric in this country, and are not take for granted — and the right termination, and no seniority be able to successfully address — and the role that they can play convinced that they need a union to due process prior to discipline roster to protect their work rights. every outrageous act that rail- in our effort — when we take the in today’s railroad workplace. being assessed. Although the A similar event occurred re- roads may visit on their employ- time to meet face to face as Broth- To that end, I would like to union and the Carrier did ulti- cently on the Ohio Central Rail- ees. But I am certain that I would ers and Sisters. share with you our recent expe- mately reach a tentative agree- road. The primary difference not want to work in a railroad Unfortunately, and in large rience on two short line railroads, ment that provided these pro- being that BLET did successful- environment where core protec- part due to work and family ob- as I am certain that these expe- tections, the carrier-backed ly negotiate a first agreement on tions that we often take for grant- ligations — all further compli- riences should bring home to all group trying to dump the union that property. Even with a se- ed are not available. The only cated by the ‘carriers’ outrageous members the relevance of and obtained sufficient A-Cards to niority roster and a due process way to prevent that from hap- and overbearing attendance pol- need for strong union represen- require an election to determine rule in place, several dozen new- pening in our lifetimes is to make icies — I know that many mem- tation in our industry. what union would represent the ly-hired employees of that rail- the union movement stronger in bers cannot get to their Division’s A few short years ago, the op- employees. They named their road were convinced that they the face of all the attacks against regular meetings, or to one of erating employees on a WATCO so-called union “Union Free,” would fare better without a us … and that’s where you play the meetings attended by the Of- owned short line in Austin, Tex- making it clear what their goals union representing them, and a huge role. Become involved in ficers of the National Division. as, the Austin Western, voted to were. When the votes were they intentionally voted to go your union; join me and show That does not mean that they do be represented by the BLET as counted, “Union Free” didn’t get non-union rather than vote for your employer that we all stand not play an important role with- part of a union organizing ef- a majority of those votes; instead the carrier-invented union cre- tall and are proud to be union. in our union’s effort. They too fort. From day one, WATCO re- the majority of the employees ated to trigger a representation can show their pride in the union fused to bargain in good faith, were convinced to vote no union dispute. The day that BLET was Dennis R. Pierce movement, whether on the job and dragged their feet in nego- at all. decertified, those employees lost BLET National President In fact, the ripple effect unions create throughout the economy is the very reason that the corporate interests who work to destroy labor unions are waging this war. Their goal is actually quite simple: less for working class Americans means more for corporate America. BLET National Division Electronic Communications Policy fficial communications be- interpretations are made they have refer- the appropriate officer or staff for a time- cy is intended to allow the National Presi- tween BLET members and ence to a specific request and can be used ly response; however, an e-mail message is dent to be aware of the opinions and sug- the National Division require in future correspondence. not considered an official communication. gestions of the membership, while at the a hard copy of the correspon- The volume of e-mails received makes Moreover, anonymous e-mails and e- same time providing a timely response to dence,O bearing a signature, being received it impossible for the National President mails that do not provide sufficient in- the member’s unofficial communication, by the National President to be consid- to answer all unofficial communications. formation concerning the sender to en- if a response is necessary, without need- ered an “official communication.” This is Therefore, it is the policy of the BLET that able National Division staff to confirm the lessly expending limited BLET resources. to provide that the actual question(s) are e-mails addressed to the National Presi- sender’s membership status will not receive Adopted at Cleveland, Ohio on addressed, and ensures that when official dent will be reviewed and forwarded to any reply or acknowledgement. This poli- July 22, 2010. • august/september 2013 3

general President’s Message by James P. Hoffa A revolution against poverty or porat ions a re families are seeking out restau- islative Exchange Council. Midwest continue to be under- squeezing workers rant and retail jobs that pay ALEC, which acts as a go-be- reported and ignored. You can across the globe to poorly. Once they are there, wag- tween for corporations and draw a straight line from the maximize profits es largely remain stagnant and state lawmakers, is doing ev- Wisconsin uprising of 2011 to Cand minimize wages. But work- work hours are unreliable. erything in its power to strip today’s actions. ers are standing up and fight- More than 36 percent of fast- workers of their rights while We need to get the economy ing back. food workers over 20 are raising lessening rules for big business. moving again to rebuild the mid- Whether it’s fast food work- children. But 79 percent of those It has pushed for the implemen- dle class. Workers’ backs are ers in the U.S. or mass protests in the same age group make less tation of laws that limit work- against the wall. Business is across Europe, one thing is clear than $10.10 an hour. Meanwhile, ers’ ability to organize. booming for big corporations. — workers are no longer keep- a recent report by the National But workers are fighting back. Companies must do their part ing quiet while being abused by Employment Law Project notes We are in the midst of a global by paying a living wage and treat- big business. the largest losses in real wages revolt against poverty. The me- ing workers fairly. Why is this happening? Be- in the last three years have oc- dia missed the boat on the mas- cause good-paying jobs that curred in the low- and middle- women with few options to sive worker unrest that began Fraternally, were plentiful just a few years income job categories. support their families. just two years ago. Protests in ago have not been replaced af- Companies are profiting by More and more states are in- North Carolina and Wisconsin James P. Hoffa ter the last recession. Instead, sending more jobs overseas creasingly falling under the in- and low-wage worker walkouts Teamsters General adults trying to support their and leaving working men and fluence of the American Leg- in Michigan and much of the President ALEC, which acts as a go-between for corporations and state lawmakers, is doing everything in its power to strip workers of their rights while lessening rules for big business.

Texas Pacifico interchanges with Ferro Mex Prepare now for and several other major carriers. 2015 Triennial elections ven though Triennial elections are not required to pay dues during such for BLET Divisions won’t be held period to maintain their continuous good again until 2015, members are re- standing. minded of the 24-month con- The International Brotherhood of tinuousE good standing requirement and Teamsters Constitution provides that how it can impact their ability to serve the members are eligible to run for election Brotherhood in an elected office. only if they are “in continuous good stand- Nominations will be held at each Divi- ing . . . and actively employed in the craft sion’s first regular meeting in September . . . for a period of twenty-four (24) con- of 2015. To be nominated for a division of- secutive months prior to the month of fice you must have paid your dues for 24 nomination” (IBT Constitution, Article consecutive months prior to the election. II, Section 4(a)(1), as codified in the Note This “24-month rule” includes all dues the to Section 1 – National Division Rules of member is required to pay. the BLET Bylaws). In other words, only members who In general, “continuous good stand- have 24 consecutive months of good ing” means the timely payment of dues standing may be nominated to run for for each of the 24 months during the ap- office. This means a member must have plicable period together with no interrup- BLET scores organizing paid all required dues to any BLET di- tions in active service during that period. vision from August 2013 through Au- Should you have any questions about gust 2015. this calculation, please contact the BLET win at Texas Pacifico However, there is an exception. Those National Division, Office of the Nation- he Brotherhood of Locomo- tive bargaining agreement,” President in active duty in a reserve component of al Secretary-Treasurer. Questions involv- tive Engineers and Trainmen Pierce said, “and that job begins today.” the military or the National Guard for ing an interpretation of the BLET Bylaws (BLET) scored a short line President Pierce thanked Kent Confer, a period lasting more than 30 days but must be referred to National President organizing victory in Au- BLET Special Representative and Direc- not more than 24 consecutive months Dennis R. Pierce. • gust as a majority of work- tor of Organizing, for his hard work in se- ers at Texas-Pacifico Transportation Ltd. curing the election victory at the Texas- Tvoted to make the BLET their designat- Pacifico property. BLET Officers Election rules ed collective bargaining representative. President Pierce said the Texas-Paci- and forms available on BLET website The National Mediation Board certi- fico members will belong to the BLET’s he BLET National Divi- tion-related documents in one terpretations of the Election fied the election results on August 22. The BNSF (former AT&SF) General Com- sion announced on Au- convenient location. Rules (also known as Elec- organizing victory brings about 25 new mittee of Adjustment. He thanked Gen- T gust 13 that official Section 48 of the National tion Rules Advisories), nomi- train and engine service employees into eral Chairman Alan Holdcraft, 1st Vice forms and documents for BLET Division Rules of the BLET nation forms, forms for mem- the ranks of the BLET. Chairman Robby Cunningham, and members seeking to run for of- Bylaws governs the election of bers to declare their candidacy BLET National President Dennis R. Secretary-Treasurer Chris Mosser for fice in the 2014 National Divi- National Division Officers. for office, and various other fi- Pierce welcomed the new Texas-Pacif- their assistance in the organizing effort. sion Officers Election are avail- Pursuant to Section 48, the Na- nancial reporting forms ico workers to the House of Labor and Texas-Pacifico operates freight ser- able on the BLET website. tional Secretary-Treasurer has that are required by the Elec- thanked them for voting BLET. The vice over approximately 380 miles in The program Adobe Acro- issued these Election Rules, tion Rules. Brotherhood will begin contract nego- West Texas, from San Angelo Junction bat is required to download which were approved by the The BLET’s Third Qua- tiations with rail management as quick- to Alpine Junction. It also operates from and view the documents, which BLET Advisory Board on May drennial National Convention ly as possible, he said. Paisano Junction to International Bridge are available here: www.ble-t. 7, 2013. is slated for September 29 “The best way to respond to the con- near Presidio, Texas, and it interchang- org/2014election. The documents being made through October 2, 2014, at fidence shown by our new Texas-Pacifico es with the BNSF Railway, Union Pacif- The website provides inter- available on the new website the Rio Hotel and Casino in members is to help them realize the goals ic, and the Fort Worth & West- ested members with all elec- include the Election Rules, in- Las Vegas, Nevada. • they identified in their first-ever collec- ern Railroad. • 4 www.ble-t.org

Herb Harris Matt Thornton reelected chairman reelected CSXT of DC State Western Lines Legislative Board General Chairman att A. Thornton was reelected erbert Harris Jr. was reelected will continue doing a professional job of General Chairman of the BLET’s by acclamation to continue representing the best interests of our mem- CSXT Western Lines General serving as Chairman of the bers in the Washington D.C. area.” Committee of Adjustment at theM GCA’s quadrennial meeting in Gatlinburg, BLET’s District of Colum- A distinguished list of guest speakers bia State LegislativeH Board at the group’s also attended the convention, including: Tenn., from July 24-26, 2013. quadrennial convention on July 11, 2013. Joe Boardman, President & CEO of Am- A CSXT locomotive engineer, Brother Thornton The Honorable Vincent C. Gray, May- trak; Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes is a member of Division 781 (Erwin, Tenn.) and has or of the District of Columbia, attended Norton (D.C.); Vincent C. Gray, Mayor of held continuous membership in the BLET since June the meeting and designated the day “Broth- the District of Columbia; Thelma Drake, 1, 1981. He was elected Senior Vice General Chair- erhood of Locomotive Engineers and Director of Rail and Public Transporta- man in 2009, and then assumed the General Chair- Trainmen Day” in the Nation’s Capital. tion for the state of Virginia; and Simon man’s duties following the promotion of Don Moates Brother Harris is an locomo- Taylor, Assistant Administrator, Maryland to the BLET Advisory Board on July 1, 2010. tive engineer and member of BLET Di- Transit Administration (MTA). Also elected were: Senior Vice General Chair- vision 482 (Washington, D.C.). He has Also in attendance were: Timothy man W.K. (Keith) Kerley, Division 782 (Etowah, been a BLET member since 1997 and Craver, Virginia State Legislative Board Tenn.); and Secretary-Treasurer David Fitzger- was first elected Chairman in 2005. Chairman; Fred Cox, 2nd Vice Chair- ald, Division 781 (Erwin, Tenn.). Also elected by acclamation during man, Norfolk Southern-Southern Lines Alternate officers are as follows: 1st Alternate Members and officers of the the convention were: 1st Vice Chairman General Committee of Adjustment; Chris Ben Freeman, Division 190 (Huntington, W.Va.); CSX-Western Lines General Committee Bruce K. Evans, Division 14 (Washing- Brown, President and Legislative Rep- 2nd Alternate Justin B. Dzan, Division 365 (Lou- of Adjustment’s quadrennial meeting in Gatlinburg, Tenn., July 26, 2013. ton, D.C.); 2nd Vice Chairman Carlyle L. resentative of Division 52 (Baltimore, isville, Ky.); 3rd Alternate Scott A. Berger, Division Smith, Division 482 (Washington, D.C.); Md.); and Amy Sine, Local Chairman of 489 (Covington, Ky.); 4th Alternate Justin C. Wil- of Adjustment,” President Pierce said. “Under Broth- Secretary-Treasurer Christopher S. Dort, Division 14 (Washington, D.C.). cox, Division 781 (Erwin, Tenn.); and 5th Alternate er Matt’s leadership, I have every confidence that Division 14 (Washington, D.C.); and Au- “Our 2013 quadrennial convention is John V. Pedro, Division 26 (Richmond, Va.). Committee members will continue doing an excel- dit Committee Chairman Peter J. Sulli- the culmination of years of dedication The delegates also elected four Regional Chair- lent job of enforcing their contracts and represent- van, Division 482 (Washington, D.C.). and work by the officers and members of men, including: Eastern Regional Vice General ing their membership at the highest level. I thank BLET National President Dennis R. the DCSLB,” Brother Harris said. “We Chairman W.R. (Rick) Skidmore, Division 782 them all for their dedication to the Brotherhood.” Pierce extended congratulations to Broth- have successfully represented our mem- (Etowah, Tenn.); Northern Regional Vice General Also in attendance was L.R. (Larry) James, er Harris and all members and officers bers at every level of government and are Chairman Steven E. Kaiser, Division 165 (Louis- Division 284 (Parkersburg, W.Va.), who serves of the District of Columbia State Legisla- planning an even bolder and broader fu- ville, Ky.); Western Regional Vice General Chair- as the BLET System Liaison for CSX. Brother James tive Board. He expressed regret that he ture agenda.” man Chad M. Shipp, Division 742 (Evansville, Ind.); gave a presentation regarding the CSX Locomo- could not attend the meeting himself. Brother Harris presented commem- and Southern Regional Vice General Chairman tive Cab Committee. John P. Tolman, BLET Vice President & orative BLET clocks to Congresswoman E.W. (Bubba) Rice Jr., Division 140 (Mobile, Ala.). As the new Senior Vice General Chairman, National Legislative Representative, rep- Holmes-Norton, Mayor Gray, and Ms. Representing the National Division at the qua- Brother Kerley fills the office vacated by W.E. resented the National Division on behalf Drake. Ms. Drake was also given special drennial meeting were BLET National President Singleton of Division 829 (Ravenna, Ky.). Broth- of President Pierce. Vice President Tol- recognition for the commitment Virgin- Dennis R. Pierce and National Vice President Gil er Singleton did not seek reelection due to his man briefed the members on pending ia has made to Amtrak and intercity pas- L. Gore. Brother Gore is the Vice President as- pending retirement. legislative, political and regulatory issues. senger rail during her tenure. signed to the CSX properties. The CSXT Western Lines General Committee “I offer sincere congratulations The BLET’s District of Columbia “I congratulate Brother Thornton and all mem- of Adjustment represents nearly 3,500 active and and thanks to Brother Herb Harris and all State Legislative Board represents approx- bers of the CSX Western Lines General Committee retired members from 27 BLET Divisions. • members of our District of Columbia State imately 215 active members who live in Legislative Board for their ongoing com- seven states throughout the Mid-Atlantic mitment to the Brotherhood of Locomo- region. The DCSLB is the only state leg- tive Engineers and Trainmen,” President islative board comprised entirely of pas- New CFR book mailed Pierce said. “I have every confidence that senger and commuter locomotive engi- Brother Harris and his team of officers neers. • to active BLET members n early August, all active BLET ident Dennis R. Pierce said. “We see “I have every confidence that Brother Harris members were mailed two book- these CFR booklets as a valuable re- and his team of officers will continue doing a lets containing important provi- source that our members can use fre- sions of the U.S. Code of Federal quently. On behalf of all members, I professional job of representing the best interests IRegulations. thank our partners with the North of our members in the Washington D.C. area.” The booklets were funded through a American Railway Foundation for tak- — Dennis R. Pierce collaborative effort between U.s. department of transportation ing the initiative in helping the North American Rail- Federal Railroad Administration us produce these valuable way Foundation (founded Code of Federal reference guides.” by the Brotherhood’s Relief Regulations: The North American & Compensation Fund) and Title 49 Railway Foundation (NARF) the BLET National Divi- is a non-profit operating PARt 240: sion. The booklets contain Qualification and Certification foundation formed by of Locomotive Engineers

key provisions of the PARt 242: the Brotherhood’s Relief Qualification and Certification U.S. Code of Federal Regu- of Conductors and Compensation Fund lations (CFR) governing (BR&CF) to support rail his- railroad operations, specif- tory, education, safety, and ically: the first booklet con- technology in the United t a i n s CF R Tit le 49, States and Canada. With ini- Part 229 (Railroad Loco- tial funding and continued motive Safety Standards); Revised OctObeR 1, 2012 Board of Directors steward- and the second booklet contains CFR ship coming from the BR&CF, NARF Title 29, Part 240 (Qualification and Cer- has supported many non-political proj- tification of Locomotive Engineers), and ects throughout the United States and Part 242 (Qualification and Certifica- Canada over the past 15 years. The pri- From left: Chris Dort, DCSLB S-T; Peter Sullivan, DCSLB Audit Committee; Jeffery Buie, tion of Conductors). mary focus of these efforts has been in DCSLB Audit Committee; Bruce K. Evans, DCSLB 1st VC; Joe Boardman, Amtrak Presi- “One of our goals with this joint en- support of organized rail labor — giv- dent & CEO; Herb Harris, DCSLB Chairman; John Tolman, BLET VP & NLR; Tim Craver deavor is to have a positive impact on ing back to all of the men and women of VASLB Chairman; Fritz Edler, outgoing DCSLB S-T; Brian Gallagher, Director-Amtrak; and both the safety and the education of the railroad community across North Vice Verna, BLET Director of Regulatory Affairs. BLET members,” BLET National Pres- America. • august/september 2013 5

Photo Album: 2013 EUMA in Baltimore ore than 200 members the color guard and the singing of Representative for Maryland’s 4th Division staff who were in attendance. mational presentation on the BLET of the Brotherhood of Lo- the national anthem, Brother Cox Congressional District. Rep. Ed- President Pierce also spoke about the health & welfare plan as well as a comotive Engineers and led the group in a prayer. Anita Ca- wards, who sits on the House Trans- Organization’s 150th anniversary workshop on the BLET’s national MTrainmen convened in Baltimore ruso, National President of the BLET portation & Infrastructure Commit- and introduced the commemorative mobilization network. on July 29 for opening ceremonies Auxiliary, led a ceremony to remem- tee, spoke about the need to put video presentation, which was well Members and their families en- of the 75th annual convention of ber BLET members killed in the line Americans back to work with good- received by the audience. The video joyed a welcome reception at the Bal- the Eastern Union Meeting Associ- of duty. An empty chair, as well as oth- paying middle class jobs rebuild- is available on the National Division’s timore & Ohio Railroad Museum on ation (EUMA). er tools of the engineers’ craft, were ing the nation’s crumbling infrastruc- YouTube page: http://www.youtube. July 28 and an evening at Camden EUMA Chairman Mark Ken- left at the front of the meeting hall ture. She also spoke about national com/user/BLETUnion. Yards for a Baltimore Orioles base- ny opened the ceremonies while Ar- to symbolize the Organization’s de- health care improvements, raising The week continued with numer- ball game on July 30. The 2013 EUMA rangements Chairman Fred Cox parted Brothers and Sisters. the minimum wage, and the impor- ous educational opportunities. Work- concluded with a dinner banquet and welcomed all members and Guest speakers included Ernie tance of the upcoming 2014 elections. shops featured specialized training dance the evening of July 31. their families to Baltimore on be- Grecco, President of the Metropoli- BLET National President Dennis for BLET Legislative Representa- The 76th annual EUMA will be half of BLET Division 52. tan Baltimore Council of the AFL- R. Pierce introduced members of the tives, Secretary-Treasurers and Lo- held in Cleveland, Ohio, from Au- After presentation of the flags by CIO, and Donna F. Edwards, U.S. BLET Advisory Board and National cal Chairmen. There was an infor- gust 4-8, 2014. •

Operating unions advance federal crew size legislation n August 2, the Brotherhood of Lo- and Infrastructure (“T&I”) Committee person crewing practice used on MM&A and comotive Engineers and Trainmen for consideration. some other short line railroads places the pub- (BLET/IBT) and the Transportation The legislation reflects heightened con- lic safety at risk,” Pierce said. “We urge Chair- ODivision of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Trans- cerns over crew size arising from the tragic man Schuster and the T&I Committee to hold portation International Association (SMART) July 6 derailment of a Montreal, Maine & At- hearings on this issue after the recess.” jointly announced that legislation requiring lantic (MM&A) fuel train in Lac Mégantic, SMART Transportation Division Presi- at least two crew members on all freight trains Quebec, which killed 47 and destroyed the dent Mike Futhey said, “This is a responsible in the U.S. has been filed in Congress. center of the town. The MM&A train piece of legislation that recognizes the corre- Initial sponsors for the legislation are Rep- was crewed by a single person. lations between the consist of crews and pub- resentatives Michael Michaud (D-ME) and BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce lic safety. We thank Representatives Michael Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and the bill, which has called on the House to take up the bill at its Michaud (D-ME) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) been assigned number H.R. 3040, is expected earliest opportunity. “The American peo- and urge more Representatives to join in sup- to be assigned to the House Transportation ple are justifiably concerned that the single- port.” • 6 www.ble-t.org

San Francisco hosts BLET for 73rd annual IWC LET members convened in San IWC, including training classes for Francisco on July 16, 2013, for Secretary-Treasurers, Local Chair- the 73rd annual International men and Legislative Representatives. BWestern Convention (IWC). Event co- There was also a hazardous materials chairmen Oscar A. Burrola (Local workshop, a BLET mobilization work- Chairman, Division 839) and shop, and a conductor certification Luis Chavez Jr. (Local Chairman, Di- workshop. vision 283), along with the members Events included the traditional of their Arrangements Committee, opening ceremony, a golf tournament welcomed all to San Francisco. at the Presidio Golf Course. The 73rd The convention was held at the Hil- annual IWC concluded with a din- ton San Francisco Financial Dis- ner banquet and dance. Next year, the trict. Six educational workshops were 74th annual IWC will be held in Min- held for members attending the 2013 neapolis, Minn. •

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Transportation workers protecting each other since 1910. august/september 2013 7

Health FSA open enrollment begins October 1 Enrollment must reach 5% or benefit may be lost pen enrollment will run from ment, dated January 5, 2012, are eligible to website: www.ble-t.org/pr/pdf/Health_FSA_ being done on-line (www.yourtracktohealth. October 1, 2013 until Novem- participate in the FSA plan. The national Health Savings_2013.pdf com). Please call Railroad Enrollment Services ber 2, 2013, for the Health Flex- FSA is distinct and separate from the on-prop- at 1-888-298-9754 if you have any questions. ible Spending Account Plan erty BNSF Health FSA plan. The participation Why you should participate? (Health FSA), which is avail- rates identified in this News Flash do not apply The FSA program will allow you to put aside Use it or lose it? able to BLET represented engineers who work at to BNSF engineers. your own dollars on a pre-tax basis to be avail- Per federal regulations, you must use all the Oparticipating railroads, and all train service em- able for reimbursement — to you — of eligible money in your Health FSA for expenses incurred ployees of . What is the FSA Plan? and qualified health care expenses not covered during your Period of Coverage (for the 2014 This important health care benefit, secured The FSA Plan, administered by United Health- by your medical, vision, or dental plans, as well Plan Year, the period from January 1, 2014 through by the BLET during the most recent national care, is designed to allow you to use pretax dol- as other approved Health and Welfare expenses, December 31, 2014) or you will forfeit the unused contract, is in danger of falling by the wayside lars to pay for certain medical expenses that are for which coverage is not afforded. portion. This provision is typically referred to as unless membership participation increases. At not covered under any health plan (including a “use it or lose it” and any unused funds will be least 5% of eligible engineers must participate in railroad health & welfare plan) or any other What is covered? diverted to pay for the plan’s administration costs. the Health FSA in the 2014 Plan Year, and 7.5% source. You are then reimbursed for eligible ex- Certain medical, pharmacy, dental and vision Members are advised to keep this in mind when in the 2015 and subsequent Plan Years, or the penses from your FSA, which means you’ll be expenses are eligible for the program. A complete making their elections for how much money to Carriers will have the right to terminate the plan using pretax dollars to pay for those expenses. A list of covered items and procedures is in a PDF put into the plan at first so that you know for cer- beginning with the following Plan Year. The PDF on the National Division website has more on the BLET website: www.ble-t.org/pr/pdf/ tain that you will easily spend all the funds. How- deadline to register for the 2014 benefit year is info: www.ble-t.org/pr/pdf/Health_FSA_In- FSA_Eligible_Expense_List_2013.pdf ever, this should not be a reason to not take ad- November 2, 2013, and the BLET is encouraging tro_2013.pdf vantage of a great benefit such as this, especially all members to sign up. How do I sign up? because you can put as little as $10 per month What can you save? Information to sign up for the Health FSA is ($120 total for the Plan Year) as the minimum to Who is eligible? You could save hundreds of dollars in taxes contained in the open enrollment packets. Eligi- participate in the Health FSA. Except as noted at the end of this paragraph, each year with a health FSA. The amount you ble members will receive this information in the The new plan year begins January 1, 2014, but locomotive engineers and Tex-Mex train ser- could save in taxes depends on how much you set near future, prior to the open enrollment period, you will need to make your elections during the vice employees covered by the Health & Wel- aside and the amount of your expenses. A spe- which runs from October 1, 2013 until Novem- upcoming open enrollment period or you will fare portion of the most recent National Agree- cific example can be found in a PDF on the BLET ber 2, 2013. This year, open enrollment is again miss the train on this one! • 2 0 13 Calendar & Events MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 2014 BLET REGIONAL There is a MEETINGS June 15-19, 2014 87th Annual Southeastern difference. Meeting Association (SMA) Savannah, Ga. Arrangements Chairman D.C. Dickey, Local Chairman of Division 646, welcomes all BLET members to beautiful Compare monthly costs. Savannah, Ga., for the 2014 SMA. At the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Get the best value from the BR&CF. Resort & Spa. More details to come! Difference on June 29-July 3, 2014 Daily Benefit $100 $150 $200 $200. With 74th Annual International Level ($102*) ($201*) BR&CF You Western Convention (IWC) Save. Minneapolis, Minn. BR&CF $38.00 $57.00 $76.00 Arrangements Chairman David K. Brown, LECMPA (*) $59.50 $87.50 $117.25 $41.25 every month Chairman of the Minnesota State Legislative UTU $66.00 $99.00 $132.00 $56.00 every month Board and LR of Division 517, will host the 2014 IWC at the Hilton Minneapolis. The BR&CF is the least expensive protection when disciplined More details to come! for eligible occurrences and is committed to remaining affordable. You could save up to $672 each year. The August 4-8, 2014 76th Annual Eastern Union BR&CF offers you the best price, value and service. Meeting Association (EUMA) Cleveland, Ohio The BR&CF is a not-for-profit organization with a proven Arrangements Chairman Patrick Redmond, track record of giving back to members and the rail labor Local Chairman of Division 607, community. The BR&CF created the North American Railway and Co-Chair James R. Blum, Legislative Rep. Foundation to help make things better for all of us. of Division 526, welcome all BLET members to Cleveland for the 2014 EUMA. Guests will stay at the newly-renovated Compare apples to apples. Westin Downtown Cleveland, within It’s clear the BR&CF works for you. easy walking distance of BLET National Division headquarters. More details to come! To apply for membership and become a part of the BR&CF... act today... ask a BR&CF member where you work for an application September 7-11, 2014 79th Annual Southwestern or visit our web site at www.brcf.org or call us toll free at Convention Meeting (SWCM) St. Louis, Mo. 800 233-7080 Arrangements Chairman Dave W. Grimes, Local Chairman of Division 42, LECMPA and UTU rates are accurate will host the 2014 SWCM at the Hilton and effective on date of print. St. Louis at the Ballpark Hotel. For more information, visit the SWCM website: bletswcm.org. august/september 2013 8

Advisory Board July 2013 Activity Locomotive Engineers And Trainmen News Periodicals Postage In accordance with the BLET Bylaws, summaries of BLET Advisory Board members’ activities are published monthly: Brotherhood Of Locomotive Engineers And Trainmen PAID National President Dennis R. Pierce: National Division Office, Cleveland; General super- IWC regional mtg., San Francisco; UP-Western Lines, Article IX, Inter Divisional Run negotiations, A Division Of The Rail Conference, at Cleveland, OH. vision of BLET activities; General office duties; Correspondence and telephone communications; San Francisco; UP-Northern District work stabilization negotiations, Omaha, Neb.; UP-Southern Supervision of Office Administration; General Supervision of Special Representatives; President, Region New York Dock Section 4 negotiations, Fort Worth, Texas; EUMA regional mtg., Baltimore; International Brotherhood Of Teamsters Teamsters Rail Conference; Policy Committee, Teamsters Rail Conference; Division 98 mtg., Lin- UP-Western Lines-Pacific Harbor Lines PLB 6659, Alexandria, Va. coln, Neb.; International Western Convention (IWC) regional mtg., San Francisco, Calif.; CSX-W Vice President Gil Gore: Assigned to all CSX; Grand Trunk Western; Union Pacific-Southern BLET Publications Committee: GCA mtg., Gatlinburg, Tenn.; Eastern Union Meeting Association (EUMA) regional mtg., Balti- Region GCA special assignment; Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) issues, CSXT; General of- Dennis R. Pierce, National President more, Md. fice duties, paperwork, correspondence, emails, telephone calls, etc.; Mtg. w/ GC Tony Smith, re: E. “Lee” Pruitt, First Vice President & Alternate President First Vice President E.L. (Lee) Pruitt: National Duties include but not limited to: Director, Dropped turns, Jacksonville, Fla.; Advisory Board mtg., Cleveland; Public Law Board w/ GC Matt William C. Walpert, National Secretary-Treasurer Passenger Dept.; Shortline Organizing Dept.; Trainmen’s Dept.; National Publications Committee; Thornton, CSX, Cleveland; MARC negotiations, conference call, CSX; SMA regional meeting, Rich- John P. Tolman, Vice President & National Legislative Rep. National Legislative Board; Teamsters Rail Conference Policy Committee; PRAC; and National Ne- mond, Va.; Advisory Board conference call. John V. Bentley Jr., Editor gotiations; Vacation; July 4 holiday; National Democratic Club, Baltimore, Md.; National duties, Vice President Michael D. Priester: Assigned to all BNSF (former ATSF, former C&S, Bill Joyce, Art Director/Assistant Editor Cleveland; IWC regional mtg., San Francisco; NY Dock negotiations, Fort Worth, Texas; EUMA CRI&P, FWD, former STL-SF, BNSF/MRL), Panhandle Northern, Missouri & North Arkansas, www.ble-t.org (216) 241-2630 regional mtg., Baltimore, Md. Montana Rail Link, Austin Western RR, Great Western; General office duties, telephone, email, cor- National Secretary-Treasurer William C. Walpert: General supervision of accounting respondence communications, etc.; Democratic National Committee, Baltimore, Md.; IWC regional COPYRIGHT 2013, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED dept., records dept., online services dept., tax compliance dept.; Education & Training Dept.; Inter- mtg., San Francisco; LR meetings, Divisions 98 and 621 w/ GC Wilson, Lincoln, Neb.; Mtg. w/ MRL VOLUME 27 NUMBER 6 August/September 2013 nal Organizing, Mobilizing & Strategic Planning Dept.; Safety Task Force; Meetings with vendors and GC Wilson, Missoula, Mont.; EUMA regional mtg., Baltimore, Md. and financial institutions; Publications Committee; Teamsters Rail Conference Policy Committee; Vice President Cole W. Davis: Assigned to: Kansas City Southern (MidSouth Rail, SouthRail, LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEERS & TRAINMEN NEWS (ISSN 0898-8625) Trustee, National Railroad Retirement Investment Trust (NRRIT); National Democratic Club, Bal- is published monthly by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen, Gateway Western, Illinois & Midland), Texas Mexican Rwy.; CP Rail System/US (Indiana South- timore, Md.; NTSB public hearing on Paulsboro, N.J., accident, Washington, D.C.; IWC regional ern, Iowa, Chicago & Eastern, Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern); Springfield Terminal (St. Lawrence 1370 Ontario Street, Cleveland, OH 44113-1702. mtg., San Francisco; Division 391 mtg., Ft. Madison, Iowa; EUMA regional meeting, Baltimore. & Atlantic, Montreal, Maine & Atlantic, Delaware & Hudson), Cedar River, Louisville & Indiana, Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, OH. Vice President & National Legislative Representative John P. Tolman: Assigned Huron & Eastern; General office duties, telephone, email, correspondence communications, etc.; KCS issues, assisting GC Parker; Tex Mex issues, assisting GC Rodriguez; Huron & Eastern issues, USPS: 0002-244 ISSN: 0898-8625 to BLET Washington, DC office; General office duties, telephone and correspondence communica- tions; Coordinate content of NLO website; Weekly PAC committee and legislative mtgs.; Attended assisting GC Barriger; CP Rail and DM&E issues, assisting GC Semenek; Louisville & Indiana RR POSTMASTER: Send address changes to IBT Political Coordinators Monthly mtg.; National Democratic Club, Baltimore; UTU regional mtg., issues, assisting GC Hatrill; Mid South, assisting GC Craddock; Democratic National Committee, Baltimore; Huron & Eastern issues, assisting GC Barriger; Springfield Terminal, MMA and D&H Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen News — BLET Records Department, Boston; Innovative Finance in Passenger Rail hearings; Mtgs. w/ various Senators’ offices regarding 9/13 issues involving movement of hazmat, PTC and other issues; District of Columbia State Legislative issues, assisting GC Moore; Tex Mex issues, assisting GC Rodriguez; IWC regional mtg., San Fran- 1370 Ontario Street, Mezzanine Cleveland, OH 44113-1702. Board mtg., IWC regional mtg., San Francisco; EUMA regional mtg., Baltimore; Mtgs. w/ Amtrak; cisco; NS Northern Lines and W&LE issues, assisting GC Linsey; EUMA regional mtg., Baltimore. Various mtgs. and receptions with members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. Vice President Stephen J. Bruno: Assigned to various Rail Safety Advisory Committees Vice President Marcus J. Ruef: Vice Chairman, full NRAB; Labor Member, 1st Division; (RSAC); Regulatory duties as assigned by the President; Amtrak; ; New York Photo of the Month: August/September 2013 Labor Member, National Mediation Board Arbitration Advisory Forum; Director of Arbitration & Atlantic; Metro North; New Jersey Transit; PATH; SEPTA; Metra; Union Railroad; Birmingham Dept; Assigned to Illinois Central; Wisconsin Central; Elgin, Joliet & Eastern; Indiana Harbor Belt; Southern; Telephone calls, correspondence, email, general office duties, etc.; Prepare cases for ar- MARCH 1943: Its tender piled high with coal, this Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe (ATSF) freight train is about to leave for the West Coast and Belt Railway of Chicago; Assist GC Hannah w/ disciplinary issues; Research for IWC/SWCM bitration, assisting LIRR GCA, Hapauge, N.Y.; Democratic National Committee, Baltimore; NTSB regional mtgs.; July 4 holiday; Interp. REQ issues, NRAB, Chicago; Assist GC Cundari w/ claims is- investigation & hearing, Paulsboro, N.J. derailment & hazmat release (), Washington, D.C.; from Corwith Yard in Chicago, Ill. This photo was taken by renowned railroad photographer Jack Delano during World War II as part of his sues, IHB, Chicago; Work w/ DW Davidson, re: BLET regional mtg. workshops, Chicago; Assist GC IWC regional meeting, San Francisco; Contract negotiations, prepare proposal, Metra; Confrence assignment for the Farm Security Administration-Office of War Information. Photo: Library of Congress. This is the sixth in a series of photos from Craddock w/ disciplinary issues, IC; ROAR Sept. mtg. planning, NRAB; IWC regional mtg. & LC calls and mtgs., Metro North; EUMA regional mtg., Baltimore. the BLET archives that will be published this year in recognition of the Organization’s 150th anniversary. The BLET was founded as the Brother- workshop teaching, San Francisco; Tentative agreement explanation mtgs., WC, Chicago, Duluth, Vice President R.C. (Rick) Gibbons: Assigned to: All Norfolk Southern General Committees; Minn. And Stevens Point, Wisc.; Assist GC Linsey w/ SBA 1063 hearing, Chicago; NRAB adminis- hood of the Footboard on May 8, 1863. Wheeling & Lake Erie; Chicago, Fort Wayne & Eastern; New York, Susquehanna & Western; New trative issues, Chicago. England Central; Connecticut Southern; Western New York & Pennsylvania; Indiana & Ohio; Ohio Vice President Mike Twombly: Assigned to all Union Pacific GCAs (Eastern District, North- Central; RSAC/RSIA Fatigue Management Group; General office duties, telephone, email, corre- ern Region (former C&NW), Western Lines (Pacific Harbor Lines), Western Region (Portland & spondence communications; July 4 holiday; National Democratic Club, Baltimore, Md.; Transition Western), Central Region, Southern Region; On duty at home office; UP-Western Lines-Pacific Har- of BNSF GCA office, work w/ GC J. Thurman, Gladstone, Mo.; IWC regional mtg., San Francisco; bor Lines contract signing, Wilmington, Calif.; Democratic National Committee, Baltimore, Md.; EUMA regional mtg., Baltimore.

Important announcement for Medicare eligible BLET members and retirees pending in the U.S. for prescription drugs to the general public and is designed to help Medicare was $259.1 billion in 2010, and is projected to eligible BLET members, retirees and their spouses Did you double over the next decade. The TEAMStar reduce their prescription drug costs and insure them know? MedicareS Part D Prescription Drug Program can against high prescription drug expenses in the future. help you with those costs. This program was introduced in 2006 and thousands 90% of individuals If you are a BLET retiree, of Teamster retirees have cho- age 65+ have spouse or dependent of a BLET sen to enroll during the pro- prescription drug retiree and entitled to Medicare gram’s first seven years. expenses Part A and/or enrolled in Medi- The enrollment period for (Agency for Healthcare Research care Part B, you are eligible for TEAMStar Medicare Part D and Quality, www.meps.ahrq.gov/ the TEAMStar Medicare Part Prescription Drug Program mepsweb/, March 2010 D Prescription Drug Program runs from October 15, 2013 Prescription drug (PDP). You are entitled to this to December 7, 2013. We hope prices have grown program regardless of your you will take advantage of this 32.4% from 2000 health history or the drugs you affordable prescription drug are currently taking. plan, which enables BLET to 2009 Are you a photographer? The National Division’s images to the “Photo of the Month” section of the News- Please note only high resolution images can be The TEAMStar Medicare Part D Prescription Drug members to save as much money as possible. (Prescription Drug Trends, Kaiser Public Relations Department, which produces the News- letter. If you’d like to submit a photo for consideration, used. Members are also encouraged to review their Family Foundation, May 2010) letter each month, has received numerous inquiries lately you may call Editor John Bentley at (216) 241-2630, ext. employer’s policies regarding the use of cameras and Program is a voluntary Medicare Part D Prescription You can get more detailed information and also from BLET members volunteering to contribute their 248, or you can email: [email protected]. other electronic devices while on duty. Drug Program that meets the federal government re- register for the program at www.teamstarpartd.com Open Enrollment • quirements for creditable coverage. It is not available or call 1-866-524-4173. • Begins October 15, 2013•