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.
Railroad Unemployment and Sickness Benefits Will Slightly Decrease Under Adjusted Sequestration Rate
Beginning October 1, 2016, the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) will reduce railroad unemployment and sickness insurance benefits by 6.9 percent, up from the current 6.8 percent reduction, as required by law. The adjusted reduction amount is based on revised projections of benefit claims and payments under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act. It will remain
VP Biden Announces New Trainsets for Northeast Corridor
Wilmington, DE – Vice President Biden joined with Sens. Tom Carper (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE) and Amtrak officials in announcing a new $2.45 billion loan to purchase up to 28 brand new state-of-the-art locomotives, upgrade track and improve stations throughout the Northeast Corridor. In addition, the new trainsets will be built at the Alstom manufacturing
A message from TCU President Bob Scardelletti – 2016 Presidential Election
The upcoming presidential election presents one of the starkest choices for union workers in our lifetimes. Hillary Clinton has proudly stood with union workers throughout her career. Donald Trump says he’s pro-worker – but everything in his public life suggests the opposite. It is no accident that every major labor union in America, including TCU/IAM,
TCU Mourns Death of Unit 86 National Representative Larry Jones
TCU/IAM regrets to report the death of Lawrence “Larry” J. Jones, a lifetime Amtrak railroader and a pillar of strong union representation and leadership. Jones passed away on August 17, 2016. “Larry was a dedicated and caring union representative, constantly striving to make the lives of the members he represented better,” said TCU/IAM President Bob
RRB Financial Reports
The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) is required by law to submit annual financial reports to Congress on the financial condition of the railroad retirement system and the railroad unemployment insurance system. These reports must also include recommendations for any financing changes which may be advisable in order to ensure the solvency of the systems. In
Social Security Warns of Furloughs, Service Cuts if Congress Enacts Proposed Funding
Congress may force the Social Security Administration to cut back on services and furlough employees, according to the agency, which pointed to proposals in both the House and Senate to reduce its funding. Although not directly effecting Railroad Retirement, this is the thinking of Congressional members on retirement benefits and could paint a dim picture
Tampa and Winston Consolidation
On June 17, 2016, TCU Carmen Division General Vice President, Donald Grissom, presented to the members at Tampa and Winston, FL, the Consolidation Agreement when CSX consolidated these 2 locations. All active members will receive up to 5 years of protection at 100% of their TPA if continuing in service. Any member who was furloughed will received
Unemployment and Sickness Benefits for Railroad Employees
The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) administers the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, which provides two kinds of benefits for qualified railroaders: unemployment benefits for those who become unemployed but are ready, willing and able to work; and sickness benefits for those who are unable to work because of sickness or injury. Sickness benefits are also payable
Health & Welfare Cost‐Sharing Employee Contributions – National Agreement
Under terms of the 2011 National Agreement covering freight railroads, from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2014, the health & welfare employee cost?sharing contribution was $200 per month, from January 1, 2010 through June 30, 2012. Effective July 1, 2012, the employee contribution was reduced to $198 per month and has remained frozen at
SMART pushes 2-man crew legislation
The SMART Transportation Division is pushing for new legislation to ensure that freight trains are operated by two-person crews, including a certified conductor and a certifief engineer. TCU/IAM supports this legislation (H.R. 1763, the Safe Freight Act) introduced by long-time defender and supporter of railroads and rail labor, Rep. Don Young (R-AK). You can tell