Brothers and sisters:

Yesterday was a terrible day for the public and for the members of Local 589. The Massachusetts House of Representatives released their draft budget, and it includes recommendations that eliminate the protections afforded by the Taxpayer Protection Act (“Pacheco Law”), jeopardizing not only your jobs but also the public interest.

We are deeply disappointed this bill appears to unfairly penalize the hardworking men and women of the Carmen’s Union for the result of years of mistakes and incompetence by the management at the MBTA. We have seen the failures of privately run and unaccountable transit systems, like the Commuter Rail, and are confident that lawmakers will recognize the important role that can be played by a well-run transit system with a proper management structure in place. We will continue to fight for accountability and protections for both our workers and the public.

The Governor has already indicated his plans to outsource the Night Owl service. This is the first step towards privatizing the MBTA. Now is the time for organization and action against corporate greed. We need every member to call and email their state representative and state senator to make sure they know we won’t stand for attacks on workers.

Please call your state representative today and ask them to support amendment #665 sponsored by Rep. Nick Collins and numerous other legislators. If you talk to your state senator, ask them not to repeal the Taxpayer Protection Act, (“Pacheco Law”). Click here if you don’t have your legislators’ contact information.

All reports indicate that the issues at the MBTA are a direct result of poor planning and lack of leadership by management. Yet, again, the workers are the ones paying the price. We are incredibly proud of the great work that was done by the men and women of Local 589 during this past winter―returning the trains and trolleys to service more than one month ahead of the privately-run and outsourced Commuter Rail. We will continue to fight for you all on Beacon Hill but need your help today.

Call the Union hall at 617- 542-8212 and get engaged today. It’s about your jobs and livelihood!

Yours truly,

The Executive Board