BMWED members ratify contract with CSX

CSX employees represented by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BMWED) have voted to ratify a five-year collective bargaining agreement, the union and railroad announced last week. 

The new agreement secures gains for nearly 4,200 CSX employees represented by the BMWED, including raises of 18.77% compounded over the life of the contract, a reduction in the time needed to accumulate vacation, improved health and welfare benefits, and significant improvements to local work rules, according to a BMWED press release.

“To secure this contract now, improving many important rules, locking in bonus structures for vital positions, attaining gains in vacation and health insurance without increases in employee contributions, is important and unprecedented in modern rail bargaining,” said BMWED President Tony Cardwell.

To date, CSX has ratified agreements with 10 labor unions, covering 13 different work groups, accounting for 42% of its unionized workforce.

“The ratification by the BMWED marks an important advancement in our ongoing collaboration with union leadership,” said CSX President and CEO Joe Hinrichs in a press release. “CSX remains dedicated to cultivating a workplace environment where every employee feels valued, respected, included, and appreciated. Our collective focus continues to be on improving safety, efficiency, and service together as ONE CSX to build a stronger foundation for our future success.”