BRS members OK labor pact with Amtrak

Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) members that work for Amtrak have ratified a new contract with the national intercity passenger railroad, BRS announced today.

The agreement became effective May 3. Nearly 700 members work in the communications and signal departments covered by the pact, which provides for wage increases through 2021, according to a BRS press release.

In addition, the agreement calls for retroactive backpay, which is expected to be paid before July 1. The monthly health-care contribution was "slightly decreased" and will remain frozen until changed in the next round of bargaining.

Moreover, new benefits include a new-hire alternative health-care plan starting in 2019.