UTU, NS finalize new START policy - BLE agrees to "tag along" after having no input in process

UTU, NS finalize new START policy

BLE agrees to "tag along" after having no input in process

Click here for full details of UTU-NS START policy

CLEVELAND – United Transportation Union (UTU) chairpersons on the Norfolk Southern Railroad finalized an agreement last week with the carrier for a progressive new discipline policy – called START – that will begin January 1, 2000.

"The new UTU-NS START policy is literally about a new start at Norfolk Southern Railroad," said UTU International President Charles L. Little. "I congratulate our NS chairpersons for working so hard to provide new hope for a better quality of life for all operating employees on the railroad. Not only have they greatly helped UTU members, but they’ve also aided BLE members who benefit by our union’s hard work and real results."

Delbert Strunk, NS General Chairperson, called the START policy "a positive change that has everyone excited about the future. As each of you is aware, the old NS discipline policy has long been a detriment to our members and their families. Hopefully, this new policy will alleviate many of our concerns in maintaining our livelihoods."

About the BLE’s involvement in developing the START policy, Strunk said, "Honestly, the BLE had no input at all. However, the carrier has contacted BLE and they’ve indicated they will sign on to the UTU-START policy as we negotiated it. Once again, the BLE follows behind the UTU in representation on the Norfolk Southern. We are glad to help rank-and-file BLE members improve their working conditions, and this shows what we can do as one union for all."

Highlights of the START policy include:

Infractions are divided into three categories: minor, serious and major.

Disciplinary hearings will not be held solely for sustaining a personal injury.

An "Oversight Committee" will be established to main the integrity of the policy and review any such cases.

Strunk said a series of Town Hall-type meetings will be held at Norfolk Southern and Conrail facilities before January 1 to help explain the new START policy.

UTU chairpersons who helped negotiate and finalize the START policy, which stands for "System Teamwork and Responsibility Training," are: Chairpersons Strunk, Jim Clark, Pate King, Dave Benson, Bruce Daniel and Walter Eubanks.

Click here for full details of UTU-NS START policy