Union Plus Programs for TCU Members
TCU fully supports the programs available for active and retired TCU members and their families. With the money savings programs available, in some situations, the benefits can offset paid union dues.
IAM Postpones 40th Grand Lodge Convention
The IAM released a notice advising that the 40th IAM Grand Lodge Convention has been rescheduled for September 12-17, 2021, in San Diego, at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel. The notice also outlines certain procedures for the election of delegates and alternate delegates. Most importantly, the letter outlines procedures for the election of delegates
RRB Labor Member: Testing Underway, Enhanced Benefit Payments Expected Before June
A message from John Bragg, the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) labor member, released on May 21st, stated that the increased $1,200 in unemployment benefits from the CARES Act will begin to be deposited next week. From RRB Labor Member John Bragg: In my last update, I explained that Phase 2 of the RRB’s CARES Act
RRB Labor Member: Enhanced Benefit Payments Expected by End of May
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or CARES Act, recently signed into law by President Trump, authorized extended unemployment insurance (UI) benefits for railroad workers sidelined during the COVID-19 pandemic. After making necessary programming changes to agency systems, the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) began processing and paying extended benefits on May 11.
TCU Urges Federal Lawmakers to Increase Relief Funds for Transit Workers
TCU and the IAM joined a group of labor unions and federal lawmakers rallying for additional relief funds to support the nation’s transit workers. TCU and IAM signed onto a letter urging House and Senate leaders to consider an additional $32 billion of relief for transit agencies in the next CARES Act bill. “It has
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
Machinists Celebrate 132nd Anniversary – Message from International President Martinez
Sisters and Brothers, Today is the 132nd anniversary of the founding of our great union. Our history is one of overcoming great challenges. We have not only survived depressions, wars, continuous attacks on our union, and yes, pandemics—we have thrived. The Fighting Machinists have met every challenge we have faced because we are one union
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)
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
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
BRC/TCU Members of the Wreck Crew Receive Commendation from Massachusetts DOT
On December 26, 2019, Keolis Train 518 derailed on the Worcester Main Line. The BRC/TCU members of the Wreck Crew responded to this Main Line derailment to re-rail the equipment and to open the Main Line as quickly as possible. Keolis Commuter Line Railroad is one of the few railroads on the country with its