CSX inks sick-leave agreements with two more unions

CSX has reached agreements with two more railroad unions to provide paid sick leave to employees.

Announced Feb. 10, the agreements were reached with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, which represents railroad machinists, and the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers, which represents CSX's utility workers.

"CSX is very much committed to the well-being of all of our employees and their families. We have great respect for the work they do in service to our customers and the nation, and we will continue to partner with them and their representatives to ensure they have the best possible employment experience with our railroad," CSX President and CEO Joe Hinrichs said in a press release.

CSX did not announce details of the latest agreements. Last week, the Class I reached contractual agreements with the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division and Brotherhood of Railway Carmen for the provision of paid sick leave benefits.

Also last week, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) called on six Class Is to provide their workers with at least seven paid sick days. Sanders noted that CSX has voluntarily negotiated paid sick leave with rail unions, and he encouraged the other railroads to do the same.