Category Archives: TCU Blog

TCU Joins Rail Labor in Asking Amtrak to Increase Death Benefit for Employees Due to COVID-19

In a recent letter to Amtrak President and CEO William Flynn, Rail Labor asks for Amtrak to increase the death benefits for employees that pass away due to COVID-19. The letter states: Rail transit systems, railroads and bus operation systems in the United States are experiencing a crisis like never before. Transportation employees are facing

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Optum is Extending Video Chat and Telephonic Service for Members Covered Under the Railroad Employees National Health and Welfare Plan

Until May 31, 2020 (unless extended by Optum), members can access mental health and substance use care from your provider through digital or telephonic means. In other words, instead of physical office visits, mental health and substance abuse care provider services may be received via online video or chat (including video capabilities on your phone)

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RRB Release – Railroaders May be Eligible for Unemployment Benefits Under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance if Denied by RUIA

In a recent release from the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) Labor Member John Bragg: The RRB’s General Counsel has been advised by the DOL that nothing in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provisions prohibit railroaders from being eligible for benefits if they qualify. The RRB’s General Counsel has also found that there is nothing in

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RRB Release Updated – COVID-19 Impacting Railroad Retirement and Sickness Benefits

Based on the current environment surrounding the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, issues are arising that railroad employees need to be aware of.  Members need to understand the current implications of all the requirements and the impact on their Railroad Retirement benefits and medical coverage. The latest update of the questions and answers from the U.S. Railroad

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TCU Urges Additional Support for New York’s MTA

Leaders of TCU wrote to Congress this week to push for urgent action on increased funding for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). Approximately 3,600 TCU members work at the MTA and its commuter railroads, the Long Island Railroad (LIRR), Metro North Railroad (MNR) and Staten Island Rapid Transit (SIRTOA). “Our members are braving the pandemic

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TCU Member Charles Dillard has Achieved 50 Years of Service on Alaska Railroad

Brother Dillard initiated with the BRC/TCU Local 6067 on April 1, 1970. Brother Dillard has achieved 50 years of active service at the Alaska Railroad Corporation in Anchorage. He currently is working the AAR Write-Up Position at the Repair Facility. His responsibilities include inspecting and writing up freight cars and passenger cars that are used

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