At a meeting in Washington, D.C. yesterday, the General Chairmen who are part of the National Wage and Rules movement endorsed a new National Agreement proposal similar to the original 2000 proposal, but with some significant additions.
The new proposal is essentially an updated version of the 2000 document with regard to:
The new proposal also contains:
A provision to maintain the status quo on Health and Welfare benefits pending separate study and negotiations and subject to separate membership ratification of any changes resulting from those negotiations.
A provision for a payment of 46 minutes at straight time rate per tour of duty for employees operating locomotive remote control devices
Creation of remote control protection positions for employees who become unable to hold an assignment due to implementation of remote control at their terminal.
A Carrier option to reduce remote control protection positions through buyouts or reserve boards.
This new proposal will be distributed to our Local Chairmen next week and will be posted on this web site as soon as possible. We will compile a list of questions for interpretation, and it is anticipated that the International will distribute the final document to the membership for ratification some time in June or July. Additional information will be posted to this site as it becomes available.