SMART-MD has reached an agreement with major rail companies to provide quality-of-life improvements, including paid sick leave benefits, to eligible employees.
According to a news release, transportation company CSX recently announced that it has reached an agreement with SMART-MD (Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers - Mechanical Division) to provide paid sick leave benefits to eligible employees.
“CSX continues to work collaboratively with all of our union partners to find solutions that improve the quality of life for our valued employees,” said Joe Hinrichs, president and chief executive officer of CSX, according to the release. “This agreement with our SMART-MD workers marks the ninth such agreement and is a demonstration of our commitment to our railroaders.
"I greatly appreciate the SMART-MD leadership for working with us on this agreement as we continue building momentum and create a more positive work environment for our employees which helps them provide the best service to our customers,” Hinrichs added.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg voiced his support for the agreement, saying in a May 2 Twitter post, "Good progress. This step, once ratified, would mean that a majority of U.S. union rail workers will have sick leave. We will keep pushing until that share reaches 100% so that America's essential rail workers have the quality of life they need and deserve."
A news release stated that the tentative agreement between Norfolk Southern and SMART TD includes "technology-driven enhancements" that ensure scheduled days off and improved weekly assignments for all conductors.
There are also tools and work-rule changes that offer transparency and flexibility for vacation and paid time off. Other notable improvements include: higher reimbursement for meals, additional compensation for working weekends and away from home, and up to seven days of paid sick leave for personal well-being, including five new paid sick days.
"I have a deep appreciation and respect for the contributions that my craft colleagues make to our company, our customers, and the U.S. economy," said Alan H. Shaw, president and CEO of Norfolk Southern.
