Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen Division 174 Stevens Point Wisconsin
RRB to issue Statements of Service (Form BA-6)
Each year, the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) prepares a Form BA-6, Certificate of Service Months and Compensation, for every railroad employee with creditable railroad compensation in the previous calendar year. The RRB will mail the forms to employees during the first half of June. Form BA-6 provides employees with a record of their railroad retirement service and compensation.
Anyone with compensation reported in 2021 who has not received Form BA-6 by July 1, or who needs a replacement, should contact an RRB field office by calling toll-free at 1-877-772-5772.
The information shown is used to determine whether an employee qualifies for benefits and the amount of those benefits; therefore, it is important that employees review their Form BA-6 to see whether their own records of service months and creditable compensation agree with the form.
There are instructions on the back of the form and the RRB web page on how to file a protest if service and compensation totals are incorrect. The law limits to four years the period during which corrections to service and compensation amounts can be made.
For more information, please see the RRB website:
https://www.rrb.gov/News.../NewsReleases/StatementsofService
January 21, 2022 Brandon WI - 2022 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 2022
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
October 2020 LMRC notes from General Chairman Hau
LMRC notes have been released. Click the above link to view. 11/14/2020
November 14, 2020 G - REEF ACT Tell your Senators to support bill S.4860 to end RRB benifit cuts
The Teamsters Rail Conference and the Transportation Trades Department (TTD) of the AFL-CIO are urging leaders of the United States Senate to support legislation (S. 4860) that would end the unfair cuts to Railroad Retirement Sickness and Unemployment benefits, known as sequestration.
REEF ACT Revised PDF
April 23, 2020 Independce OH - Hau elected CN-WC General Chairman
Brother Eric A. Hau was elected by acclamation to the office of General Chairman at the Canadian National-Wisconsin Central General Committee of Adjustment’s quadrennial meeting on April 21, 2020. The meeting was a first of its kind in the history of the BLET, as it was not held in person but “virtually” through online video conference technology.
January 20, 2020 Independce OH - National Negotiations Website
The BLET National Division has launched a new webpage — https://www.ble-t.org/negotiations2019 — to provide important information to affected members regarding the current round of National Negotiations.
January 10, 2020 Green Bay WI - 2020 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 2020
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
January 20, 2020 Independce OH - National Negotiations Website
The BLET National Division has launched a new webpage — https://www.ble-t.org/negotiations2019 — to provide important information to affected members regarding the current round of National Negotiations.
January 10, 2020 Green Bay WI - 2020 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 2020
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
January 7, 2019 Green Bay WI - December 2019 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the December 2019 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
November 7, 2019 Green Bay WI - Update regarding CN/WC Contract Negotiations
CN-WC BLET Local Chairmen
CN-WC BLET Members
This message, is in connection with my earlier email to you, of September 13, 2019 (see below, trailing email).
Attached, you will find:
1). A copy of this General Committee’s Section 6 Notice and Attachment “A”, which was served upon CN-WC Management, on November 1, 2019.
2). A response from Director of Labor Relations, Mr. Tom Sullivan, concerning National Bargaining Notice, also dated as November 1, 2019.
3). A letter from our National BLET President Pierce and the National Section 6 Notice, also dated November 1, 2019.
4). A letter to President Pierce, from this General Committee, dated November 7, 2019, giving our BLET National President Pierce, our authorization to negotiate on behalf of this Committee.
5). A response received today, November 5, 2019, received at 9:34 AM EST, from NCCC / Arlington, Virginia, concerning our Section 6 Notice served upon the Company.
What all of this information means to the BLET membership on the WC is that CN has elected to assign its negotiating authority (for IC and GTW as well) to the NCCC in Washington, DC. In turn, we have assigned our negotiating authority to the National Division, with National President Pierce having the authority to negotiate for our property. As a result, all further negotiations conducted regarding our Section 6 notice will be conducted nationally. In the meantime, our Schedule Agreement is maintained under the status quo provision of the RLA, and will only be changed to the extent any agreement reached at the national level does so.
You will be given further updates, as they are provided to this office.
Fraternally and sincerely,
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
CN/WC Section 6 Notice November 1, 2019
CN/WC Section 6 Notice Attachment A November 1, 2019
Response from Director Labor Relations Tom Sullivan November 1, 2019
Dennis Pierce regarding National Section 6 November 1, 2019
National Carrier Conference Section 6 Notice November 1, 2019
BLET CN/WC Letter to Pierce to Authorize the National to negotiate on behalf of this Committee November 7, 2019
Response from National Carriers Conference regarding BLET CN/WC Section 6 November 5, 2019
October 11, 2019 Lake Barrington IL - Open-Enrollment is NOW OPEN for the CNWC Voluntary Group Insurance Plan!
This is a FULL open enrollment for ALL Wisconsin Central members. During this open-enrollment all members can add coverage previously declined and ALL members are eligible to enroll in Life Insurance up to the guaranteed issue maximum amount of $200,000 with no medical questions asked! Members may also add their spouse and children to their life insurance elections if they have not previously done so. When open-enrollments ends on October 31, 2019 all coverage elections will be underwritten by Elips Life Insurance Company (elipsLife) and will be guaranteed for the next three years (until November 1, 2022).
There are new Short-Term and Long-Term disability options available, so all members are encouraged to call Cornerstone (224) 770-5307 to get their questions answered and for assistance enrolling/renewing via telephone. If you are currently enrolled and do not actively renew your benefit elections you will be automatically enrolled in the benefit options that most closely mirror your current premium and benefit elections, and those coverage’s will become effective on November 1, 2019. Renewing your benefits, adding benefits or enrolling for the first time is easy and can be done over the phone by calling Cornerstone at (224) 770-5307, or you can enroll online at www.uniondisability.com/groups/blet-cnwc/
September 13, 2019 Green Bay WI - Update, regarding contract negotiations
On Wednesday, September 11, 2019, I and Vice Chairman Hau met with President Pierce and our BLET General Counsel, Mike Wolly, at BLET Headquarters, in Independence, Ohio.
We discussed, the upcoming round of bargaining.
We let President Pierce know, that the Carrier informed me, verbally, they plan on being at the National Table, instead of on-property, for this upcoming round of bargaining. As of this time, I have received nothing officially in writing on this from Carrier, other than, just some verbal talk.
In the meantime, unless we get something officially in writing, I will be serving the Carrier, with our on-property Section 6 Notice, on or after November 1, 2019.
After we serve our Notice, it will then be sort of, a wait-and-see-game, to determine if the Carrier will actually go National Handling, as they verbally stated to me, or instead, continue negotiating on-property, as we have in the past.
However, at this juncture, we remain in a holding pattern, to see in which direction, the Carrier officially/actually will go, regarding this round of bargaining.
As you well know, it’s not unusual, for this Carrier to change its mind.
You’ll be further advised, as future developments unfold, as information is received in this General Committee office.
In solidarity,
John Reynolds, CN-WC General Chairman
September 3, 2019 Stevens Point WI - Updated contact information for Division 174 Union PLD/SDV Requests
Please see the above linked posting for new contact information when Division 174 members request a Union PLD/SDV.
August 8, 2019 Independence OH - Mobilization Message - Teamster 2020 Survey to Identify Top Issues
BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce encouraged all BLET members to go to http://www.teamsters2020.com; and fill out the survey to let union leaders know what their thoughts are going into the 2020 election.
July 29, 2019 Green Bay WI - July 2019 LMRC Notes Released
Please click the above link to view the July 2019 LMRC Notes
July 29, 2019 Green Bay WI - Kory Hansen new Critical Incident - Mobilization Coordinator
I am pleased to announce and welcome Brother Kory Hansen as the newly appointed Critical Incident Director – Mobilization Coordinator to our General Committee. This appointment is effective July 29, 2019. Brother Hansen is replacing Brother Gordy Hill. I would like to thank Brother Hill for his hard work and dedication during his time as Critical Incident Director – Mobilization Coordinator to our General Committee.
July 29, 2019 Green Bay WI - Claims Tracking System Upgraded
This is to advise you that the GCA has updated our website (bletcnwcgca.org) so you can track your claims through the appeal process. I would like to thank you for your patience during this process as it is ongoing maintenance.
Click Here to view the Claims System Guidlines
January 8, 2019 Green Bay WI - 2019 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated for January 2019
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
December 28, 2018 Green Bay WI - Tentative Agreement Ratified
Please click on the above link to view the Ratification Results letter.
November 28, 2018 Green Bay WI - Tentative Agreement Reached
Please click on the above link to view the agreement package.
January 30, 2018 Independence OH - Inward Facing Cameras Claims and Arbitration Award
See the above link and following links regarding claims and Arbitration Award relating to Inward Facing Cameras.
January 30, 2018 Letter from BLET National President Pierce.
Special Board of Adjustment Arbitration Award.
January 13, 2018 Green Bay WI - 2017 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 12, 2018
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
Click Here to read the BLET CN/WC General Chairman Notice
Note these rosters were updated on 01/18/2018 to correct errors from DWP Prior Rights and Engineer Promotion class dates.
January 6, 2018 Green Bay WI - December 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the December 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
January 6, 2018 Green Bay WI - November 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the November 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
December 8, 2017 Green Bay WI - Section six update - Survey Results
Please see the above linked letter regarding the May 25, 2017 Membership Survey.
November 13, 2017 Green Bay WI - October 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the October 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
October 29, 2017 Green Bay WI - September 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the September 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
October 24, 2017 Green Bay WI - Carrier Disipline Policy
Please see the above link to view a notice from the General Chairman concerning the Carriers new discipline policy.
September 11, 2017 Green Bay WI - August 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the August 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
September 5, 2016 Barrington IL - Cornerstone Insurance Enrollment Extended to September 14, 2017
Dear Local Chairmen and Union Officers,
Due to the large call volume from members looking to enroll, we will be providing a final open enrollment extension until next Thursday, September 14th.
Please help us spread the word to your members to call our office at (847) 387-3555 to get enrolled at their earliest convenience. Thank you for your support and please let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards,
Ethan Boucek
Account Executive
Cornerstone Benefits Management
August 29, 2017 Green Bay WI - July 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the July 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
July 26, 2017 Lake Barrington IL- Cornerstone Open Enrollment
CNWC Members,
Open-Enrollment for the CNWC Voluntary Group insurance plan (underwritten by Principal) is now open! Now is the time you can increase your life insurance elections, add coverage your previously declined and/or increase your disability income or benefit options. Open-Enrollment will close on August 31st 2017 and all elections made during open-enrollment will become effective on September, 1st 2017.
It should be noted that this is simply an open-enrollment. No changes to the plan or rates have been made. We are still under rate guaranteed for our existing policy until August 1, 2019. This open enrollment is simply the time to make changes if you wish. If you are happy with your current elections and don’t need to make changes then you can simply do nothing and your current elections will remain in effect.
It is recommended that all members (whether participating or not) call Cornerstone (847) 387.3555 to learn about your options during this open-enrollment. While participation is voluntary and the individual choice of each member, the more members we have participating will help the overall long term sustainability of the policy, while at the same time giving more members income protection benefits. Your health and ability to earn an income are the most important assets you have. Our General Committee group insurance policy was put in place seven years ago to help protect our members and their family’s way of life if they were unable to work due to disability or death. Since that first policy seven years ago, many millions of dollars have been paid to our members and their families when the unfortunate occurred, and while this coverage is not right for all members, our goal is for all members to be well informed and to make an educated decision whether to participate or not.
All questions should be directed directly to Cornerstone (847) 387.3555. Member can enroll or make changes over the phone by calling Cornerstone.
Click here for the open enrollment flyer
Click here for detailed plan information
Click here to be directed to Cornerston's website
July 20, 2017 Independence OH - Public Law Board 7425 Award 61, Electronic Devices
Please see the above link for more information regarding Personal Electronic Device use.
July 19, 2017 Green Bay WI - BLET Town Hall Meeting September 7, 2017 Roselle IL
Please see the above link regarding a BLET Town Hall Meeting in Roselle IL all BLET Members are invited to attend.
July 18, 2017 Green Bay WI - June 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the June 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
May 31, 2017 Green Bay WI - Upcoming Bargaining Round
Brothers and Sisters,
You should be receiving a letter from this office concerning your GCA’s up-coming bargaining round with the Carrier. Attached to the letter is a survey asking you to rank the five issues you would most like to see addressed in the upcoming round. Your opinion is very important to the GCA. We will consider this information carefully as we draft our Section 6 notice.
PLEASE take the time to fill out and return the survey. A self-addressed, stamped envelope is included for your convenience. This survey is an opportunity for you to express what is important to you. If you do not receive this information, please contact this office or your Local Chairman for a copy. Once the information from the surveys is compiled, the GCA will post the results and keep you up-dated as we get closer to beginning our Section 6 negotiations.
Looking forward to reviewing your survey responses and thanking you in advance for participating in your Union.
John W. Reynolds General Chairman, CN/WC
February 21, 2017 Green Bay WI - January 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the January 2017 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
February 9, 2017 Green Bay WI - 2017 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 4, 2017
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
Click Here to read the BLET CN/WC General Chairman Notice
January 24, 2017 Green Bay WI - December 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the December 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
December 10, 2016 Green Bay WI - October/November 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the October/November 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
November 5, 2016 Green Bay WI - Passing of Brother Michael Suriano
Brothers,
I am sadden to announce Brother Mike Suriano, a member of Division 174 passed away unexpectedly Thursday. This is a sad reminder of how fragile life really is. On behalf of all members of CN/WC membership I extend our most heartfelt sympathies to the Suriano family. More details will be provided as they become available.
John Reynolds
CN/WC General Chairman
Click here for more details
Bulletin: In Remembrance – Michael Suriano
October 8, 2016 Green Bay WI - September 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the September 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
October 3, 2016 Green Bay WI - Passing of Brother Scott Sterling
Brothers,
I am sadden to announce Brother Scott Sterling, a member of Division 174 passed away unexpectedly yesterday. This is a sad reminder of how fragile life really is. On behalf of all members of CN/WC membership I extend our most heartfelt sympathies to the Sterling family. More details will be provided as they become available.
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
Click here for more details
Bulletin: In Remembrance – Scott Sterling
WSAW Channel 7 news story
September 12, 2016 Green Bay WI - August 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the August 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
August 7, 2016 Green Bay WI - June/July 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the June/July 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
July 1, 2016 Barrington IL - Cornerstone Insurance Enrollment Documents
Please see the documents below for Cornerstone Enrollment Information
Enrollment Documents for those currently enrolled with Cornerstone
Open Enrollment Documents for those NOT currently enrolled with Cornerstone
June 4, 2016 Green Bay WI - May 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the May 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
May 6, 2016 Green Bay WI - April 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the April 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
April 20, 2016 Green Bay WI - March 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the March 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
April 12, 2016 Independence OH - John Reynolds reelected to fifth term as CN-WC General Chairman
Canadian National–Wisconsin Central (CN-WC) General Chairman John W. Reynolds was reelected by acclamation to his fifth term of office at the General Committee’s quadrennial meeting in Green Bay, Wisconsin, March 30-31, 2016.
March 5, 2016 Green Bay WI - February 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the February 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
February 3, 2016 Green Bay WI - January 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the January 2016 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
January 24, 2016 Green Bay WI - Metlife Short Term Disabilty Shortages
Please see the attached letter to members. This letter pertains to members who were off work due medical leave and collected STD benefits from MetLife, as they may have been shorted on their STD income.
January 7, 2016 Green Bay WI - December 2015 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
See the above link for the December 2015 BLET CN/WC General Chairman Report
January 5, 2016 Homewood IL - 2016 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 5, 2016
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
Click Here to read the BLET CN/WC General Chairman Notice
December 23, 2015 Cleveland OH - USOR - Rule 0600 - Switching Safely and Efficiently
Brothers,
Please see the attached letter concerning an incident at Fond du Lac in which the engineer received a 33 day actual suspension for allegedly
violating USOR - Rule 0600 - Switching Safely and Efficiently.
November 30, Stevens Point WI - 2016 Stevens Point Vacation Calendar
Click the above link to view the 2016 Stevens Point Vacation Calendar
November 7, 2015 Barrington IL - Cornerstone Assurance Group Open Enrollment Opportunity
This benefits enrollment packet serves as your open-enrollment kit for two new benefits that are being made available to all members of the BLET CNWC GCA. Specifically, all members may now enroll (and be guaranteed approved) for Critical Illness and Accident Insurance with Aflac insurance company. Open-enrollment will be open from November 15, 2015 until December 15, 2015. If you enroll during open enrollment you will be fully insured on January 1, 2016 (you are immediately covered for 25% of your elected benefit amount the day your enrollment forms are received). It is important to understand that these benefits are being made available to you IN ADDITION to the Disability and Life insurance benefits already in place with Lincoln Financial Group. These Aflac benefits are NOT replacing any other insurance plans. These Critical Illness and Accident Insurance benefits have been negotiated on a group basis to provide all members of the General Committee access to insurance benefits that would not otherwise be available to you on an individual basis.
Click to read the entire program cover letter
October 2, 2015 Green Bay WI - Passing of Brother Nate Collins
Brothers,
I am sadden to announce Brother Nate Collins, a member of Division 174
passed away unexpectedly yesterday. This is a sad reminder of how fragile
life really is. On behalf of all members of CN/WC membership I extend our most heartfelt sympathies to the Collins family. More details will be
provided as they become available.
John Reynolds
CN/WC General Chairman
September 22, 2015 Cleveland OH - Letter from Dennis Pierce on Fatigue
Click the above link to read a letter from BLET President Dennis Pierce to CN CEO Claude Mongeau
August 2, 2015 Stevens Point WI - OFFICIAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF NOMINATIONS 2015 ELECTION NOMINATION OF OFFICERS FOR DIVISION 174
SECTION 7(a) – LOCAL DIVISION RULES OF THE BLET BYLAWS STATES:
"Nominations for officers of divisions shall be made at the first regular meeting in September preceding the date of election; no member shall be nominated for office who is not eligible for election at the time of nomination. Members in good standing desiring to place their nominations for division officers may nominate by voice from the floor at the meeting at which nominations are being held and those unable to attend the above meeting on account of being on vacation, sick, working, or on an outlying assignment may write their choice of nominations to the division secretary-treasurer, who will read same at the meeting. All nominations, including written, must be seconded. Candidates may not nominate themselves or second their own nominations."
NOMINATIONS FOR ALL DIVISION OFFICERS WILL BE IN ORDER AT THE REGULAR DIVISION MEETING, WHICH WILL OPEN IN DUE FORM AT 19:00 P.M. ON THE 10th DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2015, AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:
Middletown Bar and Grill
2301 Church Street
Stevens Point, WI 54481
YOU MAY SUBMIT NOMINATIONS IN WRITING TO THE UNDERSIGNED. SUCH WRITTEN NOMINATIONS MUST INCLUDE THE NAME OF THE CANDIDATE(S) AND OFFICE(S) NOMINATED FOR, THE DATE, YOUR SIGNATURE, AND YOUR NAME LEGIBLY PRINTED.
Darrel R. Tolzman
Secretary-Treasurer, Division 174
2015 Officer Nomination Form
2015 Members with 24 months Continuous Good Standing
July 2, 2015 Green Bay WI — Critical Incident Director - Mobilization Coordinator
Brothers,
I am pleased to announce and welcome Brother Gordy Hill as the newly appointed Critical Incident Director – Mobilization Coordinator to our General Committee. This appointment is effective July 2, 2015. Brother Hill is replacing Brother Chuck Schulz. Brother Schulz was recently elected to the position of Wisconsin State Legislative Board Chairman. I would like
to congratulate Brother Schulz on his new position and thank him for his hard work and dedication as the former Critical Incident Director – Mobilization Coordinator to our General Committee.
Brother Hill is member of BLET Division 173 (Fond du Lac, Wisc.). In November of 2012, he was elected Alternate Legislative Representative of his Division and assumed the Legislative Representative position in November of 2014. In addition, Brother Hill serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee for the Wisconsin State Legislative Board. I know he will work tirelessly on behalf of the General Committee and all members of our Brotherhood. I have every confidence that he has the skill and dedication necessary to meet the challenges that lie ahead.
As Critical Incident Director to our General Committee Brother Hill’s duties
will be, but not limited to, contacting members involved in critical incidents and ensuring all of their adequate needs are met. In his duties as Mobilization Coordinator Brother Hill will be responsible for working with the General Committee’s Division Coordinators in updating and maintaining the mobilization networks. These networks will be used to distribute pertinent information to our Membership.
Brother Hill can be contacted as (920) 979-4853 or at geetarjunky@att.net.
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
June 20, 2015 Green Bay WI — Passing of Brother Schubert
I am sadden to announce Brother Josh Schubert, a member of Division 175 passed away unexpectedly last night. This is a sad reminder of how fragile
life really is. On behalf of all members of CN/WC membership
I extend our most heartfelt sympathies to the Schubert family.
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
May 28, 2015 Green Bay WI - Suspended Call Windows
Brothers,
This is to update you on the current status of the suspended call windows. As of now I have notified that the call windows have been suspended at Fond du Lac and St. Point. I have an updated timeframe that call windows could be suspended until Saturday night or Sunday morning.
I have been receiving calls concerning pay issues while the call windows the call windows are suspended. Please see Article 17 – Calling For Duty Section 1 Q&A #2 that I have attached below.
ARTICLE 17 – CALLING FOR DUTY
Section 1 – Calling
D. When a disruption to service occurs, the General Manager will consult with the General Chairman and the following plan may be implemented:
The current call windows will be suspended and the effected employees will be placed on a Road Pool Board in the order of their call windows. Such employees will then be run first-in, first-out on any available assignment other than temporary vacancies.
A disruption to service is defined as a main line blockage due to derailment, washout, fire, vandalism, flood, or similar act of God that results in the stoppage of trains on the WC Division. It is not the intent to invoke this provision unless an incident results in a severe disruption to the designed flow of traffic on the WC Division. A severe disruption is defined as above noted and lasting more than five (5) hours. Furthermore, the Road Pool Board created by this provision will be abolished and crews will return to their regular assignments when main line traffic resumes.
Employees will be notified when they are to return to their normal call windows.
Question: Is a labor strike considered a disruption of service such that would trigger Article 17, Section 1 Paragraph D?
Answer: No. 2
Question: Will Engineers lose earnings as a result of implementation of Article 17 (D)?
Answer: No. Engineers will be compensated no less than the GEB rate during the affected timeframe.
I will update you as I receive more information.
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
May 1, 2015 Washington DC - DOT Announces Final Rule to Strengthen Safe Transportation of Flammable Liquids by Rail
U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx today announced a final rule for the safe transportation of flammable liquids by rail. The final rule, developed by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), in coordination with Canada, focuses on safety improvements that are designed to prevent accidents, mitigate consequences in the event of an accident, and support emergency response.
March 23, 2015 Green Bay WI - Codified April 1, 2002 revised: August 4, 2014 Agreement
Please see the attached codified April 1, 2002 revised: August 4, 2014
Agreement. The codified Agreement is at the printer and I will mail a hard
copies to all members when I receive them.
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
March 20, 2015 Oshkosh WI - BLET Wisconsin Legislative Board March Newsletter
Monday March 9th signed so–called right–to–work legislation banning requirements that private-sector workers pay union fees. In a matter of weeks, Republicans pushed through the measure making Wisconsin the 25th state with such a law, giving a victory to manufacturers in the state and a blow to organized labor and some construction firms, which had opposed the measure.
February 27, 2015 Oshkosh WI - BLET Wisconsin Legislative Board Right to Work Newsletter
BLET MEMBER ACTION REQUESTED
Click the above link to read a newsletter from the BLET Wisconsin State Legislative Board regarding Right to Work Legislation in Wisconsin and action being requested of all Members.
February 19, 2015 Green Bay WI - PLD/SDV Cancellation
The Carrier recently informed us that they are cancelling previously granted PLDs and
SDVs purportedly due to a major mainline derailment between Winnipeg and Toronto.
As a result of this incident the Carrier plans to run six to eight detour trains each direction
per day between Winnipeg and Chicago. I have been told this could continue through the
week of February 23rd
Click the above link to read the entire letter
January 12, 2015 Homewood IL - 2015 Engineer's Roster Posting
Attached is the Engineer seniority roster updated to: January 12, 2015
Director, Labor Relations
Canadian National Railway
17641 South Ashland Avenue
Homewood IL 60430
is the Company Officer
designated to receive protests as specified in Article 7 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Locomotive Engineers. Protests
must be sent by certified mail. Protests that have previously been submitted and declined will not be accepted.
Click Here to read the Carrier Notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
November 17,
2014 Stevens Point WI - Customer Tracks Snow Covered
From a discussion with Chairman Woyak, the Superintendent asked that word be spread to all operating employees that if a customer track is snow covered that we can not safely operate on their track, that we should not attempt to enter that track and report the track condition to Customer Service and the RTC. If there are any questions please contact a Division 174 Officer for assistance.
September 2,
2014 Green Bay WI - Backpay
The Carrier plans to issue backpay to active engineers on September 10, 2014. If anybody wants to make adjustments to their 401k withholdings, they need to do so before 1200 hrs. on September 8, 2014. It is very important to note that any change to the 401K election must be faxed to Payroll (708-332-3854) or emailed to Annette.Duffany@cn.ca rather than going through Fidelity. Employees should also be aware that the Railroad Retirement Board does not recognize 401K contributions as being exempt from RRB taxes so even if the employee elects 100% for 401K, it will actually be closer to 80%.
August 19, 2014 Green Bay WI - FMLA Poster
As you are probably aware, CN recently issued a poster complaining about alleged FMLA fraud and abuse, and urging you to anonymously inform on any fellow employees you suspect of improperly obtaining or using FMLA. This poster is an insult to all of us. Beyond that, it is an attempt to pit each of you against your fellow employee, which is an affront to the principles of trade unionism.
August 4, 2014 Green Bay WI - Rates of Pay
Brothers,
I have just been notified by Labor Relations that the new pay rates are being uploaded and will be applied to coincide with the new payroll period beginning August 11, 2014. Back pay will be paid up to and including August 10, 2014. Please notify your members.
John W. Reynolds
CN/WC General Chairman
July 25, 2014 Cleveland OH - Tentative Mediation A-13676 Ratification Vote
This refers to the tentative agreement between our GCA and Wisconsin Central Ltd. (CN–WC), which was mailed out to the active membership during the month of June, 2014 for ratification.
The tabulated vote results are as follows in accordance with Section 41(a) - General Committee Rules of the BLET Bylaws;
Ballots sent: 510
Ballots received: 357
In favor: 211
Against: 141
Unidentifiable: 4
Ineligible: 1
The proposed agreement has been ratified by a majority vote of the active, eligible members casting a ballot.
I would like to thank the local officers and especially the members for their determination and support for our negotiating team during these negotiations
Fraternally,
John W. Reynolds General Chairman – CN/WC, BLET
July 11, 2014 New York NY - With L.I.R.R. Strike Looming, Congress Indicates It Is Unlikely to Intervene
The dispute between the Long Island Rail Road and its unions hurtled into a more urgent phase on Wednesday, less than two weeks before a possible strike, as congressional leaders said they were unlikely to intervene on behalf of either side. Although the chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the railroad, traveled to Washington ostensibly to seek clarification on…
July 11, 2014 Stevens Point WI - Division 174 Alternate Legislative Representative Election
BROTHER SHAUN E. FORSLUND HAS ACCEPTED THIS NOMINATION AND HAS BEEN DECLARED THE WINNER OF THE AUGUST 2014 SPECIAL ELECTION BY ACCLAMATION. BROTHER FORSLUND WILL ASSUME THE POSITION OF ALTERNATE LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATIVE UNTIL THE NEXT TRIENNIAL ELECTIONS IN 2015.
July 1, 2014 Green Bay WI - Inward Facing Cameras
The Carrier recently informed us that they are installing Inward Facing Cameras (IFC) on several locomotives to use on a pilot program on the Iron Range Subdivision. The date the IFC pilot program begins will be issued per a Lake Zone Superintendent´s bulletin.
June 30, 2014 Green Bay WI - Memorandum of Understanding
For whatever reason, an anonymous poster has circulated "concerns" about the use of the term "Memorandum of Understanding" on the cover page of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement. By references to Wikipedia, the author of these "concerns" is apparently attempting to arouse suspicions about the enforceability of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement in what can only be a cowardly attempt to dissuade members from supporting it.
The Memorandum of Understanding that constitutes the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement is a legally binding instrument that will, if ratified, serve to amend the Schedule Agreement according to the terms of the settlement. It was carefully vetted by the National President's Director of Research, and was reached under the auspices of a Federal Mediator. There is no merit whatsoever to the "concerns" being anonymously voiced, and any questions about the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement should be directed to this office, not the bulletin board, locker room, or shanty.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact this office.
Sincerely,
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman – CN/WC, BLET
June 23, 2014 Green Bay WI - Mediation Process Explained
As you should be aware, a copy of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement was mailed on Friday, June 20, 2014 to active members of the BLET employed by CN-WC who are eligible to vote on the ratification of this Agreement. Ballots are due by Friday, July 25, 2014. I have received many questions concerning what happens next if the Tentative Agreement does not ratify. While there is a legal structure that governs the process from this point on, it is much harder to predict with forensic precision just what will happen. I will do my best to explain what the law provides, and my best estimate of
what could happen if you reject the Agreement.
June 21, 2014 Stevens Point WI - Nominations for the position of Alternate Legislative Representative
THIS IS TO INFORM YOU THAT DIVISION 174 WILL CONDUCT A SPECIAL ELECTION IN AUGUST. NOMINATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF: ALTERNATE LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATIVE WILL BE IN ORDER AT THE REGULAR DIVISION MEETING, WHICH WILL OPEN IN DUE FORM AT 7:00 P.M. ON THE 10TH DAY OF JULY, 2014, AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:
ROOKIES SPORTS PUB
3425 CHURCH STREET
STEVENS POINT, WI 54481
Click here to download a Nomination Form
June 20, 2014 Green Bay WI - Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement
On May 28, 2014 the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) reached a tentative contract Agreement with Canadian National's Wisconsin Central Ltd. Ballots are being mailed today to active members of the BLET employed by CN-WC who are eligible to vote on the ratification of this agreement.
Click on the above link to view the agreement package
June 16, 2014 Green Bay WI - Brother in Need
I regret to inform you that on Saturday, June 14, 2014 Brother Brett Hobbs, Local Chairman for Division 520, lost his home in a tragic house fire. Fortunately Brother Hobbs and his family escaped unharmed, but they lost all of their personal belongings in the fire.
If there is anything you can do to help Brother Hobbs and his family please contact Division 520 Secretary/Treasurer Jim Gibson at (219)741-6801 or at jimgibson520@gmail.com.
Any assistance that you may provide the Hobbs family will be greatly appreciated.
John W. Reynolds
CN/WC General Chairman
June 2, 2014 Green Bay WI - From the Office of the General Chairman-Tentative Agreement Reached
The General Committee reached a tentative Agreement with the Canadian National Railway on May 28, 2014 in Minneapolis, MN. The tentative Agreement was sent to the BLET National Division for executive review and approval on Monday, June 2, 2014. When executive approval is received from the National
Division, the ratification process will begin, at which time details of the new tentative Agreement will be furnished. This office will release more information as it becomes available.
In preparation of the Tentative Agreement being approved, Members that have changed their mailing address over the last couple of years are encouraged to contact their Division Secretary/Treasurer so their address can be updated to be sure they receive the mailing which will include their ballot.
April 23, 2014 Cleveland OH - BLET, SMART–TD to seek two-person crew laws on the state level
As part of an ongoing effort to secure a law mandating a minimum of two crew members in the cab of all locomotives, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) and the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART–TD) have provided their State Legislative Boards with model legislation to secure minimum crew size laws on the state level.
April 18, 2014 Stevens Point WI - Locomotive Calendar Day Inspections
I have recently had several Division Members contact me regarding issues with Locomotive Calendar Day Inspections (Daily Inspection). This often does not get covered well in training and can be confusing. Below I have provided the text of the rules and regulations that apply (See next Page for ABTH 202 and 505 along with 49 CFR 229.21). These should be interpreted as follows: If you are using a locomotive that hasn´t had its Daily Inspection on the day you are using it, YOU need to perform the inspection.
April 11, 2014 Kaukauna WI - Membership Update from Chairman Reynolds
This letter is to up-date the continuing business of the General Committee. The first item to address is our Section 6 Mediation negotiations with the Carrier. At the completion of our last round of meetings that were held the week of February 10, 2014, there was significant progress made, although there are still issues that neither of the parties could come to an understanding on. We were recessed by Mediator Tossi until the week of May 26, 2014, with the next round of meetings to be held in Minneapolis, MN.
Click the above link to read the full letter.
April 9, 2014 Washington DC - FRA to Issue Proposed Rule on Minimum Train Crew Size
The U.S. Department of Transportation´s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today announced its intention to issue a proposed rule requiring two-person train crews on crude oil trains and establishing minimum crew size standards for most main line freight and passenger rail operations. The FRA also intends to advance a rulemaking on train securement and recommends a rulemaking on the movement of hazardous materials.
April 4, 2014 Crystal Lake IL - Hartford Open-Enrollment Extended until April 30, 2014!!
Hartford has granted an extension to the open-enrollment for the CN-WC GCA Group
Insurance Policy. Members who enrolled during the prior enrollment are currently
insured (as of April 1st) so this extended open-enrollment does not affect you in any way. Members who have not yet enrolled, but would like to, can enroll before April 30, 2014 and will be insured on May 1, 2014.
There are two easy ways to enroll:
Visit www.RailroadDisability.com and click on the secure "enroll here" button under the CN-WC GCA column at the bottomright of the home page.
Call (815) 477.7287 and ask to have your
enrollment elections into the CN-WC GCA group insurance plan taken over the phone.
March 25, 2014 Washington DC - Federal Railroad Administration issues Final Rule on Critical Incident Stress Plans
SUMMARY: FRA issues this final rule in accordance with a statutory mandate that the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) require certain major railroads to develop, and submit to the Secretary for approval, critical incident stress plans that provide for appropriate support services to be offered to their employees who are affected by a
"critical incident" as defined by the Secretary. The final rule contains a
definition of the term "critical
incident," the elements appropriate for the rail environment to be included in
a railroad´s critical incident stress plan, the type of employees to be covered by the plan, a requirement that a covered
railroad submit its plan to FRA for
approval, and a requirement that a
railroad adopt and comply with its FRA approved plan.
Click the above link or here to view the March 25 Federal Register Entry
March 2, 2014 Kaukauna WI - Hartford Open Enrollment (CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PLAN)
Brothers,
I am pleased to inform you that we will be renewing our group insurance plan with The Hartford and ALL members are guaranteed approved for coverage during the open-enrollment which will run from March 1, 2014 to March 31, 2014.
There are open-enrollment meetings scheduled over the month of March. Please see the attached meeting locations, dates and times for open-enrollment meetings for your areas. In addition, see the attached enrollment kit. Mailings of the enrollment kit are being mailed to members Monday, March 3, 2014 and should start arriving at their homes mid-week. All members who wish to participate in the renewal policy are required to complete new enrollment forms, regardless if they are currently participating. They can complete their enrollment conveniently by doing any of the following:
1. Complete your enrollment forms online at www.RailroadDisability.com and click on the "enroll here" icon at the bottom of the homepage under the column for the WCGCA.
2. Call Cornerstone at (815) 477.7287 and have your application taken over the phone.
3. Complete the enclosed enrollment paperwork and mail them in the enclosed postage paid envelope or fax them to (847) 580.4937.
Enrollment forms must be completed and returned by March 31, 2014 to be insured on April 1, 2014 when the policy goes effective.
Cornerstone Assurance Group will also be conducting online Webinars throughout the month of March so members can learn about the renewal plan and get questions answered. Please visit www.railroaddisability.com to see the webinar schedule. All information about our renewal policy is located at the bottom of the homepage under the header WCGCA.
If you have questions about the plan or would like assistance completing your enrollment forms please feel free to contact any of the following individuals:
Cornerstone Assurance Group
Edward Haley (National Director) – 847.815.2168 ehaley@csagrp.com
Andrew Haley (President) – 847.815.4173
ahaley@csagrp.com
Chris Colton (Benefits Advisor) – 847.533.5140
ccolton@csagrp.com
Terri Maturno (Customer Service Representative) – 815.477.7287 tmaturno@csagrp.com
EJE Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 6
Schiller Park Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 6
Gladstone Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 6
Green Bay/Neenah Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 1
Stevens Point Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 13
Superior/Proctor Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 18&19
Fond du lac Enrollment Meeting Notice-March 27
If you have any questions, please contact me.
John W. Reynolds
February 9, 2014 Kaukauna WI - Current Issues from General Chairman Reynolds
As you know in probably the biggest on-going issues we are dealing with in your areas is managers on trains, excessive hours on duty, the position the Carrier is taking on limbo time and the Carrier´s on-going violations of the CBA. First, I want everyone to know that no one is sitting idly by and taking these issues lightly. Below I will describe what we are doing to address the above mention on-going issues.
Click the above link to read the entier letter
Click Here to view or download a current WC/BLET Trip Report
January 24, 2014 Washington DC - NTSB calls for tougher standards on trains carrying crude oil
The National Transportation Safety Board today issued a series of recommendations (see Safety Recommendation Letters R-14-001-003 and R-14-004-006) to the Department of Transportation to address the safety risk of transporting crude oil by rail. In an unprecedented move, the NTSB is issuing these recommendations in coordination with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.
January 24, 2014 Washington DC - FRA 49 CFR 213 Track Safety Standards Final Rule
SUMMARY: FRA is amending the Federal Track Safety Standards to promote the safety of railroad operations by enhancing rail flaw detection processes. In particular, FRA is establishing minimum qualification requirements for rail flaw detection equipment operators, as well as revising requirements for effective rail inspection frequencies, rail flaw remedial actions, and rail inspection records. In addition, FRA is removing regulatory requirements concerning joint bar fracture reporting. This final rule is intended to implement section 403 of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (RSIA).
DATES: This final rule is effective March 25, 2014. Petitions for reconsideration must be received on or before March 25, 2014. Comments in response to petitions for reconsideration must be received on or before May 9, 2014.
January 23, 2014 Cleveland OH - Attention retirees: Information about GA-23111 Plan F
Retired BLET members are being advised of the availability of coverage in addition to Medicare for railroad employees, their dependents, parents and parents-in-law.
January 21, 2014 Ottawa ON - Transportation Safety Board of Canada to release three recommendations related to ongoing investigation into train accident in Lac-Megantic, Quebec
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) will release three recommendations related to its ongoing investigation into the 6 July 2013 derailment and fire involving a freight train operated by Montreal, Maine & Atlantic Railway in Lac-Megantic, Quebec.
When:
Thursday, 23 January 2014, 11 am
Where:
Transportation Safety Board of Canada
Engineering Lab
1901 Research Road
Building U-100
Ottawa, Ontario
Who:
Wendy Tadros, TSB Chair
Jean Laporte, Chief Operating Officer
Don Ross, Investigator-in-Charge
Manuel Kotchounian, Senior Investigator
This event is for media only. Media representatives will need to show their outlet identification.
The news conference will be webcast live from the TSB Lab. You can access the webcast at this address:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/transportation-safety-board-of-canada.
The TSB is an independent agency that investigates marine, pipeline, railway and aviation transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety. It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability.
SOURCE Transportation Safety Board of Canada
Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1692446#ixzz2r2xYUrEO
January 3, 2014 Kaukauna WI - Retirement of Keith Stauber
Brothers,
This is to announce the retirement of Division 163 Local Chairman Brother Keith Stauber. On behalf of the General Committee and the entire Membership, I would like to thank Brother Keith for his dedication and service to our General Committee and our entire Membership. Brother Keith
has a substantial amount of knowledge of union representation and dedication, as he has always had the Organization and its Members at the top
of his priorities. With great respect, I would like to thank Brother Keith for all of his assistance that he has provided from the merger negotiations
to the day to day operations.
I wish Brother Keith a happy and deserving retirement as he has worked enormously hard to achieve it.
Fraternally
John W. Reynolds
General Chairman, CN/WC
December 18, 2013 Cleveland OH - BLET members to keep Health FSA plan for 2014
Members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen will keep their Health Flexible Spending Accounts (Health FSA) through 2014 thanks to an increased level of participation in the money-saving plan.
December 14, 2013 Stevens Point WI - 2014 Stevens Point Vacation Schedule
Click the above link to view the 2014 Stevens Point Engineer Vacation Schedule.
Click Here to view 2014 Vacation Schedule in Calendar format
December 11, 2013 Washington DC - Federal Railroad Administration Issues Industry-wide Safety Advisory to Ensure Compliance with Speed Restrictions
The U.S. Department of Transportation´s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today issued an industry–wide Safety Advisory to help ensure railroads adhere to federal regulations regarding maximum authorized train speed limits. The advisory contains four recommendations to ensure railroads comply with speed restrictions through appropriate operating policies, procedures and effective implementation.
November 22, 2013 Cleveland OH - Members urged to call their member of Congress after BLET lobbies for two-person crew bill
The BLET, working jointly with SMART-Transportation Division (formerly the United Transportation Union), made nearly 150 visits to members of the U.S. House of Representatives this week in support of H.R. 3040, the Safe Freight Act. The bill would mandate by federal law that two qualified individuals are in the cab of each freight train operating in the United States.
November 20, 2013 Brandon WI - Stevens Point Pools Schedule Posting
Vice General Chairman Hau has created a pool schedule to help everyone rebid their jobs with the pool schedule changes at Stevens Point, the following copy is in Adobe pdf format to make it easier for everyone to access. This is made available as a tool and no guarantees are implied.
November 12, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Section 6 Update
This letter is to update you on the status of our current Section 6 Mediation meetings with the Carrier. I was contacted by Mediator Michael Tosi last week and was notified that Section 6 Mediation meetings will resume November 20 and 21, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Click on the above link to read the full letter
November 1, 2013 Reedsburg WI - Wi-Tronix Cellular Device Detection System
Wi-Tronix is a monitoring device Railroads could use for cell phone usage monitoring on locomotives. CREWS ARE BEING FIRED! If you had any question………
October 23, 2013 Oshkosh WI - Critical Incident info Letter to all Members
It has been reported that Grade Crossing and Trespassing Fatalities have been on the rise recently according to "Operation Life Saver" and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This seems to be consistent with the amount of contact I have had with CN/WC GCA Members who have been involved in Critical Incidents over the last several months.
October 1, 2013 Cleveland OH - Railroad Retirement Board offices remain open during government shutdown; National Mediation Board to close
The U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) announced that ongoing benefit payments will continue and all RRB offices are expected to remain open during the lapse in Federal funding for certain Government operations, which began today. The National Mediation Board, on the other hand, announced that it would be closed indefinitely due to lack of funding.
September 19, 2013 Cleveland OH - Register with Your Track to Health to win iPad
The Your Track to Health brand represents the wide array of health and welfare benefits and resources available to eligible Railroad employees and their dependents. Whenever you see Your Track to Health used on communications and in materials, you can know and trust that the information is important and is being provided to help you better understand and optimize your health and welfare benefits.
September 18, 2013 Cleveland OH - Health FSA Calculator Tool now available
A health flexible spending account (Health FSA) is a benefit plan that lets you save by putting pre-tax money aside in a special account to help pay for certain medical costs and other health services. This means you can save on what you pay in your annual income taxes. Open enrollment for eligible BLET represented engineers who work at certain railroads (and all train service employees of the Texas Mexican Railway) will begin on October 1, 2013, and you can now calculate your potential savings by using the new Health FSA Calculator Tool.
September 11, 2013 Cleveland OH - Health FSA open enrollment begins October 1
Open enrollment will run from October 1, 2013 until November 2, 2013, for the Health Flexible Spending Account Plan (Health FSA), which is available to BLET represented engineers who work at participating railroads, and all train service employees of Texas Mexican Railway.
This important health care benefit, secured by the BLET during the most recent national contract, is in danger of falling by the wayside unless membership participation increases. At least 5% of eligible engineers must participate in the Health FSA in the 2014 Plan Year, and 7.5% in the 2015 and subsequent Plan Years, or the Carriers will have the right to terminate the plan beginning with the following Plan Year. The deadline to register for the 2014 benefit year is November 2, 2013, and the BLET is encouraging all members to sign up.
August 19, 2013 Kaukauna WI - General Committee Survey regarding Mediation Agreement A-13676 vote
By now you know the tentative Mediation Case A-13676 Agreement failed to ratify, 179 against, 124 in favor. So the immediate question is, what now? The short answer is that we go back into mediation.
After reading the above letter CLICK HERE to be redirected to the General Committee Website to access the survey
August 2, 2013 Washington DC - Federal Railroad Administration Issues Emergency Order to Prevent Unintended Hazardous Materials Train Movement
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today issued an Emergency Order and Safety Advisory to help prevent trains operating on mainline tracks or sidings from moving unintentionally. The FRA's announcement was made in response to the July 6, 2013 derailment in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, Canada, as it awaits additional data once the investigation into the crash is complete. The actions announced today build on the success of FRA's rigorous safety program, which has helped reduce train accidents by 43 percent over the last decade, and made 2012 the safest year in American rail history.
August 2, 2013 Cleveland OH - Operating unions advance federal crew size legislation
The Transportation Division of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation International Association (SMART) and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET/IBT) have jointly announced that legislation requiring at least two crew members on all freight trains in the U.S. has been filed in Congress.
July 31, 2013 Santiago de Compostela Spain - Driver on phone when Spanish train derailed, court says
The driver of a train that derailed in northwestern Spain last week, killing 79 people, was on the phone with railway staff when the train
crashed, court officials announced Tuesday, citing information from data recorders.
This is a reminder of: 49 CFR Part 220 Restrictions on Railroad Operating Employees' Use of Cellular Telephones and
Other Electronic Devices, further information can be found at:
http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2010-09-27/html/2010-23916.htm or from your Local Union Representative
July 19, 2013 Cleveland OH - Official Statement of BLET National President Dennis R. Pierce
The following is the official statement from Dennis R. Pierce, National President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and
Trainmen regarding the danger to public safety that one-train operations represent.
Click the above link to read the entire statement
July 16, 2013 Stevens Point WI - Properly Securing Trains
After this month's events in Canada there has been a lot of focus placed on properly securing trains. It is imperative that all members understand the process and follow through with properly securing equipment when being relieved, or anytime that you leave equipment unattended anywhere. If you have any questions regarding this please contact one of your Local Division Officers for clarification.
July 11, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement***CONTRACT EXPLANATION LOCATION AND DATES***
All WC General Committee Members,
Click on the above link for the schedule of A-13676 Mediated Agreement Explanation locations and dates. THESE MEETINGS AND CONFERENCE CALLS ARE FOR YOUR BENEFIT TO GATHER INFORMATION AND ASK ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE CONCERNING THE MEDIATION AGREEMENT A-13676 BEFORE CASTING YOUR VOTE
July 3, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Clarification of Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement Package
All WC General Committee Members,
Please see the attached letter concerning the Company´s Section 6 Notice that was in the mailing of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement. I have been notified by many members with concerns of the Company´s Section 6 Notice dated August 31, 2012 that was enclosed in the mailing of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement Package. Many members have the impression that the Company's Section 6 Notice is part of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement.
THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT PART OF THE TENTATIVE MEDIATION A-13676 AGREEMENT.
July 1, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement--CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PACKAGE
The Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement that was reached with the Canadian National Railway on June 6, 2013 received executive
approval from the BLET National on Thursday, June 27.
On July 1, 2013 copies of the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement, ballot packages and other pertinent information was mailed to all active members for ratification.
Ballots will be counted on August 9, 2013. If any active members do not receive their Tentative Agreement package by July 8, 2013 they should contact the General Committee office at (920) 462-4509 and a Tentative Agreement package will be mailed to them.
Included in the package are dates and locations for contract explanation meetings. In addition to the meetings there are four conference calls scheduled. These meetings and conference calls are for the member's benefit to gather information and ask questions they may have concerning the Tentative Mediation A-13676 Agreement before casting their vote.
June 10, 2013 Kaukauna WI - From the Office of the General Chairman-Tenative Agreement Reached
The General Committee reached a tenative Agreement with the Canadian National Railway on June 6, 2013 in Homewood, Illinois. The
tenative Agreement was sent to the BLET National for executive approval on Friday, June 7, 2013. Once this office has received
executive approval from the National the GCA will start distributing mailing packets with pertinent information concerning the tenative
Agreement and it will also be posted on the GCA Website. Shortly thereafter the release we will begin the ratification process. This
office will release more information as it becomes available.
June 8, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Revised Rosters
As you know the 2013 Seniority Roster was posted on February 4, 2013. Upon review of the posted 2013 roster there were many errors discovered. Due to the amount of errors, the roster was revised and reposted on May 15, 2013. Any member disputing their placement on the Seniority Roster that was reissued must appeal their dispute in accordance with Article 7, Section 2 (b) of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Any seniority placement protest that was appealed on the February 4, 2013 roster must be re-appealed.
Click Here to read General Chairman Reynolds notice
Click Here for the WC Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DWP Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the DMIR Order Selection Roster
Click Here for the EJE Order Selection Roster
May 29, 2013 Cleveland OH - Preparing for your early retirement
BLET Editor´s Note: The following is a list of important Information for railroad employees eligible for GA-46000 who may be planning an early retirement. It was prepared by United Healthcare.
May 10, 2013 Cleveland OH - Unions join forces to fight carrier´s implementation of inward cameras
During a meeting with the Presidents of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the SMART Transportation Division on April 24, 2013, Kansas City Southern Railway announced that it intends to install and begin to use inward facing cameras in
all of its locomotives over the next few weeks. According to KCS, each locomotive will have two (2) cameras, one behind the engineer focused on the control panel and one across the cab focusing on both crew members. (Some locomotives with cameras installed already are in use in Mexico; others are being fitted for cameras in Shreveport.) The carrier told the two Presidents that it has "management prerogative" to take these actions and does not have to, and does not intend to, bargain with the unions over the use of
these cameras, or the effects of this dramatic change on its operating craft employees. Without notifying the unions, that same day KCS filed suit in federal district court in Shreveport, LA, to obtain a ruling allowing it to implement its plan.
May 1, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Rest Day Do Not Call List
Please see the attached letter concerning a request to not be called on your rest days. This should eliminate unwanted/disturbing calls
from CMC. If a member signs up for the "do not call list" and is called, please notify your local officer so notification can be made of the General Chairman.
April 26, 2013 Kaukauna WI - Attendance Policy
As you all should already know, the Carrier has announced "Attendance Guidelines" to take effect on May 24, 2013. I fully understand that our members have many questions, concerns and fears about this policy and how it will be administered. The purpose of this letter is to let all of you know the GCA´s position in this regard.
March 19, 2013 Cleveland OH - 150th anniversary celebration planned for Detroit on May 8, 2013
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen enters its 150th year on May 8, 2013. It is the oldest transportation labor organization in North America. Founded May 8, 1863, at Detroit, Mich., the BLET has its headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. It has more than 500 Divisions (locals) throughout the United States. The first unit of the Brotherhood to be formed was Division
1 in Detroit, Mich., on May 8, 1863.
February 4, 2013 Kauakauna WI - 2013 WC-DWP-DMIR-EJE Seniority Roster Protest Letter from General Chairman Reynolds
The 2013 BLET Seniority Roster was posted on February 4, 2013. Seniority protest must be appealed in accordance of Article 7,
Section 2 (B) of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE LETTER FROM LABOR RELATIONS PERTAINING SENIORITY ROSTER PROTESTS
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2013 WC-DWP-DMIR-EJE SENIORITY ROSTER
January 18, 2013 Cleveland OH -Update from BLET Tax Compliance department
Internal Revenue Service regulations require the BLET National Division to inform its members that a certain portion of your National Division dues are not tax deductible as a miscellaneous itemized deduction on your personal tax returns.
According to the National Secretary-Treasurer´s office, 84.2 percent of your BLET National Division dues are tax deductible on a Form
1040 tax return.
January 8, 2013 Cleveland OH - Update on new vision care plan and discount plan for retirees
In November, the BLET National Division announced that an improved vision care plan would begin in early 2013 for certain members. As a part of the new program, a no-cost Discount Plan is being offered to retirees. Information on the early retiree Discount Plan is now available here: http://www.ble-t.org/pr/pdf/Eye_Med_RR_Retirees_Discount.pdf
January 4, 2013 Cleveland OH - UP/Texas State Legislative Board HOS Violations
Enclosed herewith for your information and files please find a copy of a file provided by Texas State Legislative Board Chairman T.D. Briggs, relative to his successful prosecution of Union Pacific Railroad's violations of the hours of service laws as interpreted in Federal Railroad Administration Technical Bulletin OP-04-30.
January 4, 2013 Cleveland OH - Letter from BLET President Pierce regarding Fatigue
As we begin the New Year, it is appropriate for me to bring everyone up to speed regarding developments concerning the subject of fatigue. It is a subject that has captured our attention for many years. Moveover, this year should bring publication of a new Federal Railroad Administration ("FRA") regulation establishing the parameters for Risk Reduction Programs ("RRPs") that will cover most BLET members, which will include a requirement to develop Fatigue Management Plans.