GUIDANCE FOR TCU/IAM MEMBERS IMPACTED BY POTENTIAL BLET/NJT STRIKE - BEGINNING MAY 16, 2025
The below FAQ serves as guidance to TCU/IAM members who may be impacted by the NJT strike. BLET has reported that if an agreement between the BLET and NJT is not reached by 12:01 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, the BLET will immediately call for a strike of engineers. If the BLET strikes, it intends to picket locations NJT operates out of. There is also a likelihood that locations where TCU/IAM members work will be picketed.
The likelihood of this strike has prompted questions from TCU/IAM members. Many of you are aware of the longstanding practice of union railroad workers honoring legal strike actions by fellow railroad unions by refusing to cross picket lines. This guidance is intended to answer some of those questions. Please direct any requests for additional guidance to your National Representative.
Question: Is TCU/IAM currently ordering its members to strike in sympathy with the BLET?
Answer: No.
Question: As an individual railroad worker, may I still refuse to cross the BLET’s picket line?
Answer: Yes. You do not have to cross any line if you feel unsafe doing so.
Question: Can NJT discipline me for refusing to cross the BLET’s picket line?
Answer: Carriers are required to provide safe passage to workers to get to work. Historically, Carriers have not disciplined members for refusing to cross a lawful picket line. If you are threatened with discipline or made to feel that there will be a consequence for refusing to cross, please contact your National Representative, Anthony Stevens. TCU/IAM will defend any member who is disciplined by NJT for refusing to cross a lawful picket line.
Question: What do I do if I am mid-shift when the strike starts?
Answer: You should continue working and finish the shift, even if you intend to honor the picket line moving forward.
Question: Can NJT force me to work past the end of my shift if I am at work when the strike starts?
Answer: Yes, in which case you should follow the instruction, even if you intend to honor the picket line moving forward. If working conditions become unsafe, you should report the unsafe conditions to your immediate supervisor and National Representative.
Question: If I intend to honor the picket line by not crossing, should I notify management?
Answer: Yes.
Question: Are there any benefits I can take advantage of if I lose wages as a result of the strike?
Answer: You may be eligible for Railroad Unemployment Benefits during a legally sanctioned strike. Unemployment benefits are not payable for the first 14 days of the strike. You can apply for benefits accordingly through the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). More information can be found at www.rrb.gov or you can call the RRB toll free at (877) 772-5772.
Anthony Stevens
National Representative
TCU Unit 167
