BLET rejects tentative contract with NJ Transit

Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) members have rejected a tentative eight-year contract with New Jersey Transit.

Announced April 15, the failed ratification vote sets off a month-long countdown to a potential strike or lockout at the commuter-rail agency.

BLET, which represents NJ Transit locomotive engineers, said 87% of voters opposed ratification of the tentative agreement reached March 6. When the tentative pact was announced, the two sides agreed that if the contract failed to be ratified or if New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy failed to approve the agreement, a "self-help" strike or lockout would not occur for 30 days to allow for further negotiations. That date is set for May 15, BLET officials said in a press release.

“Management has moved in our direction since NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri took over in January, but this vote count makes it clear, more needs to be done," said Tom Haas, BLET general chairman representing NJ Transit engineers.

NJ Transit has a history of staffing shortages, as engineers retire or leave for commuter railroads with higher pay, Haas added.

“I am disappointed that the tentative agreement was not ratified but respect the outcome of the vote. My focus remains on reaching a fair and sustainable agreement that works for everyone and ensures NJ Transit can continue to provide the reliable service our customers count on," Kolluri said in a statement released yesterday by NJ Transit.