Last week (June 19-21), TCU/IAM leaders from across the country came to Washington, DC, to attend the 2023 Machinists Legislative Conference. Attendees heard from various members of Congress including Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), and many others.
TCU National Legislative Director David Arouca addressed the conference to discuss the importance of the Rail Safety Act and the tough reality our current members are facing on the front lines. “They are now forcing our carmen to do inspections in 1 minute. That is physically impossible. It matters to you and every single American. You all live in communities railroads travel through and derailments could happen anywhere,” said NLD Arouca.
“We are here because what happens in Washington, DC and in State Houses across the country affects everything about our lives and our union,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “ We’re here to protect our right to form a union; We’re here to defend our right to negotiate industry-leading contracts; And we’re to fight for the right of every working man and woman to live the American Dream!”
On Tuesday and Wednesday, TCU/IAM Rail Division Delegates took to Capitol Hill to spread the word to pass the Rail Safety Act, stop short-changing unemployed railroaders and allow Amtrak to grow by supporting the FY2024 Grant Request.
“I am proud of our members that were on the hill this week,” said TCU President Artie Maratea. “We spoke to Senators and Congressmen and let them know the issues that are impacting TCU members in the locations they represent and around the country.”
Want to Help Pass the Railway Safety Act? Click HERE to send a letter to Congress – it only takes 5 mins or less!
Below are some pictures from last week’s exciting conference:
TCU Representatives meet with staff of Congressman Wenstrup (R-OH).
TCU/IAM Rail Division Leadership meet with Chair Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to discuss the Rail Safety Act.
TCU/IAM Delegates meet with Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN).
TCU Representatives meet with staff of Congressman Strickland (D WA).
TCU’s NLD David Arouca addresses the IAM Legislative Conference attendees.
TCU Representatives Greg Burnett and Billy DeCarlo meet with Congressman Garbarino (D-NY).
TCU/IAM Rail Division Leadership met with Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA).
Left to right: Josh Hartford (Head of the IAM Rail Division), Greg Kocialski (TCU NVP), Artie Maratea (TCU NP), Dave Arouca (TCU NLD) and Billy DeCarlo (TCU NVP) at the Capitol.