A decision by an arbitrator to determine whether the merger agreement between the UTU and the Sheet Metal Workers International Association is an enforceable agreement is not expected before September.
The UTU and the SMWIA made presentations before arbitrator Michael H. Gottesman in early and mid-June. Briefs by both sides are to be delivered to Gottesman July 29.
Gottesman was named to arbitrate the dispute by AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka following a March 4 ruling of Federal District Court Judge John Bates.
Judge Bates, in his March 4 ruling, said a separate action by several UTU members challenging the validity of the merger is not within the arbitrator’s jurisdiction and he would delay a ruling on that complaint pending the outcome of the arbitration.
Related News
- Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act Protects Railroaders Who Served
- Brother loses leg to on-the-job injury, Needs Our Help
- Honoring Our Members Who Have Served: A Veterans Day Message from President Ferguson
- 2025 Houston Solidarity Rally: barbecue, brotherhood, and building power
- SMART-TD’s Chris Smith Wins City Council Seat in Tama, Iowa
- NTSB Issues Two Rail Safety Alerts
- Railroader Healthcare Costs Remain Stable While National Averages Soar
- Call to Action in Mass.: Transit Safety Legislation Up for Final Vote
- New Jersey’s “Vote Labor” Push led by SMART-TD’s Ron Sabol
- Better Short-Term Disability Benefits Coming in 2026