The FRA HOS Interpretation

The Q&A's starts around page 15, this is not considered the final rule on the Q&A. There will be more coming as additional questions are answered. http://utu386.org/fra/HSInterpsPosted2009-15026.pdf

Memorandum of Understanding (Ebb and Flow of Engineers)

This office has been getting numerous calls concerning the recent Memorandum of Understanding addressing Ebb and Flow of engineers, specifically Side letter 1. The memorandum is not an agreement but an interpretation addressing movement of engineers at locations under the jurisdiction of this office.

The BLET Primary Recall agreement does permit engineers to self demote, however the United Transportation Union was never party to that agreement. The UTU has exclusive jurisdiction on how seniority movement will be made for ground service employees.

Article XIII, Section 3(3) of the 1985 UTU National Agreement states:

“(3) An employee who has established seniority as conductor (foreman), trainman (brakeman-yardman), hostler or hostler helper (but without seniority as a locomotive fireman) who is selected for engine service shall retain his seniority standing and all other rights in train and/or yard or hostling service. However, such employee shall be permitted to exercise such rights only in the event he or she is unable to hold any position or assignment in engine service as engineer, fireman on a designated position in passenger service, hostler or hostler helper.”

Side Letter 1 addresses engineers that did not exercise seniority under the provision of Article XIII, Section 3(3) of the 1985 UTU National Agreement.

Copyright ©2009  JL Schollmeyer   all rights reserved.
Last Updated on 6/26/09