(The Associated Press circulated the following story on October 27.)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A union representing about 40,000 railroad workers has voted to merge with the Teamsters.
Members of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees approved the merger, with 76 percent voting in favor, the unions announced Wednesday.
BMWE represents workers who build, maintain, inspect and repair the tracks, bridges and other railroad infrastructure throughout North America.
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, with about 50,000 members, merged with the Teamsters in January.
“As did my father, I have envisioned one union representing all transportation workers — roads to rails, ports to planes — that would provide workers with real power on the job and in the political arena,” said Teamsters President James P. Hoffa. “This historic merger brings us closer to our vision.”
BMWE President Freddie Simpson will remain president of the BMWE. The Teamsters have 1.4 million members.