Ballots for the five-year tentative contract with Indiana Southern Railroad are due back to the National Division by December 5. Photo: courtesy of Grady McKinley
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The BLET has reached a tentative contract with the Indiana Southern Railroad (ISRR). Ballots were mailed this week to eligible members to vote on a tentative on-property agreement governing rates of pay, benefits, and work rules for 13 BLET locomotive engineers and conductors.
The tentative five-year deal would run through the end of 2029 and would provide general wage increases of 22.5% (24.5% compounded) over the life of the contract (8% at signing; 3.0% in 2026; 3.0% in 2027; 4.5% in 2028; and 4.0% in 2029). Other proposed changes would include increased meal allowances when traveling off the Indiana Southern territory, an increased boot allowance to $275.00, and the addition of a parental leave benefit.
Ballots are due by Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. E.S.T. Members who are eligible and have not received a ratification packet by Tuesday, November 26, should call the National Division at (216) 241-2630, ext. 222. When connected with the extension, please leave the following information:
- Your name, address and phone number;
- The division to which you belong;
- The railroad you work for;
- Your date of birth;
- The last four digits of your Social Security number; and
- Your email address.
Please note: All replacement ballots will be distributed by email. It’s important that any member who requires a replacement ballot include their email address in the voicemail; otherwise, they will not be able to participate in the ratification vote.
The BLET negotiating team consisted of National Vice President Pete Semenek and General Chairman Nick Mugavero. The members belong to BLET Division 270 (Washington, Ind.) and are represented by the CP Rail/U.S. General Committee of Adjustment.
The BLET first organized the ISRR in September of 2002. A Genesee & Wyoming property, the ISRR operates 196 miles of track between Indianapolis and Evansville, Ind. It handles primarily coal and agricultural commodities.