Hours of Service update
On July 16, 2009, changes to the Hours of Service Act will go into effect following passage of the Rail Safety Improvement Act (RSIA) of 2008.
The Act made significant changes in Hours of Service requirements governing BLET members. Among the major changes are:
- Increases to the amount of off-duty time required between work tours and a prohibition against a railroad interrupting that time;
- Caps on the number of service hours and limbo time hours; and
- Mandatory days off when someone initiates a tour of duty on six or more consecutive days.
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen is making available the following information to help members understand these changes:
- Rail Safety Improvement Act Section 108;
- Revised 49 U.S.C. Chapter 211 (the hours of service laws), effective July 16th;
- Revised 49 C.F.R. Part 228 (HOS recordkeeping), effective July 16th
- Federal Railroad Administration's Hours Of Service Interpretations published June 25, 2009; and
- Deadheading and new Hours of Service regulations.
The interpretations (Item 4 above) explain how FRA will enforce the new Hours of Service laws. Currently, they are of an interim nature and FRA has asked interested parties to comment on the interpretations. The National Division, in conjunction with the National Legislative Office, is reviewing the interpretations and will file appropriate comments.
General Chairmen whose properties will be affected by these changes, with the support of the National Division, are continuing to attempt to negotiate a smooth transition for the implementation of these changes.
Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
