Dear brothers and sisters,

Thank you to the over 600 members that attended yesterday’s monthly union meetings to discuss the proposed reforms to the MBTA, including the elimination of the Taxpayer Protection Act (“Pacheco Law”).

At the union meetings were Local 589’s media consultant, Steve Crawford, and lobbyist, Mike Morris. Steve gave an update on actions the union was taking with regard to public relations, and Mike talked about Local 589’s lobbying efforts to date, including sitting down with over 40 legislators. They also handed out an information packet that included talking points (listed below); the report containing the panel’s recommendations to eliminate the Taxpayer Protection Act (“Pacheco Law”), and Rep. Nick Collins’ amendment #565 to protect it.

We need your help. If you haven’t called your state legislators yet, please do it as soon as possible. If you don’t know who your legislators are or how to contact them, click on the following link: http://www.270towin.com/elected-officials/. Below are some talking points as well as some suggestions on how you should contact them.

What to say to your legislators:

• STATE REPRESENTATIVE: Tell them to support amendment #665 sponsored by Rep.Nick Collins. Tell them this amendment helps to protect PUBLIC EMPLOYEES at the MBTA and the PUBLIC INTEREST. Tell them to STOP Privatization….Keep the T Public!
• STATE SENATOR: Tell them to CONTINUE supporting the Taxpayer Protection Act (“Pacheco Law”).

How you should contact your legislators:

Although there are many ways to contact your legislator, I am sure you understand the more personal your interaction with your legislators the better. So showing up at their office is better than calling them on the phone, and calling them on the phone is better than e-mailing them.

In closing, the governor is releasing his legislation today, which will include recommendations from the panel’s report that was given out last night.

In solidarity,

The Executive Board
Boston Carmen’s Union, Local 589