For Immediate Release: November 8, 2024

Contact: Matt Spence, 202-728-6014

 

IBEW Applauds Legislation to Protect Critical Benefits for Veteran Railroad Workers

IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper issued the following statement in support of proposed legislation to update the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act:

“On behalf of the 838,000 active and retired members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, I thank U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (N.M.) for introducing the Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act. The act aims to correct current regulations that deny critical benefits to veterans who receive military retirement pay. 

“Railroad workers, many of whom are veterans, deserve fair treatment when they experience injuries on the job. By amending the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, this proposal will repair an unintended injustice faced by those who have served our country and now perform vital work on our nation’s railways. 

“The IBEW strongly supports this effort to protect the rights of all railroaders and urges swift action by Congress.”

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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) represents approximately 838,000 members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government.