As the 43rd Grand Lodge Convention approaches,
the fifth and last published installment of proposed changes to the Grand Lodge
Constitution and By-Laws are listed below, representing all changes received through the
April 30 deadline.
All proposed changes had to have been received at Grand Lodge no later than April
30, 1998 for publication in the Journal. Any changes received after that date are being
returned to the member who submitted them and will not be acted upon by the Constitution
and By-Laws Committee.
In the proposed changes listed here, language recommended for deletion is denoted
by a line through the word or words, while language that is recommended to be added is
denoted by underscoring and bold-face type.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 38
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 2912
ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Section 1. Formation of Lodges and Application for Charters. To
institute a Subordinate Lodge fifteen (15) twenty-five
(25) or more persons eligible for membership under the provisions of Section 1 of
Article XXI shall meet under the auspices of someone authorized to represent the
Brotherhood, and after paying the required fees and dues as set forth in Article XIX, they
shall proceed to vote by secret ballot upon each applicant in turn in alphabetical order.
If two or more negative votes are cast against an applicant he shall be rejected. When the
ballot is closed those who have been accepted shall be initiated by the duly accredited
representative, and those who have been rejected shall have their fees and dues returned.
If the necessary number have been accepted they shall decide upon a name for their Lodge,
leaving the number blank, and proceed to elect Officers as hereinafter provided in Section
9 of this Article. After the Officers are installed, application must be made for a
charter upon blanks furnished by the duly accredited representative of the Brotherhood and
requests for instructions addressed to the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer respecting
bonding of Officers, representatives and employes. When the said application and request
for instructions are received by the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer, accompanied by the
necessary fees and dues, he shall at once issue and forward a charter, a full set of
supplies to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Lodge and instructions governing bonding of the
Subordinate Lodge's Officers, representatives and employes.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 39
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 3075
ARTICLE III, SECTION 16, BE AMENDED TO READ:
In the case of any collective bargaining agreements
adopted upon approval by the President on behalf of the Brotherhood on a national or
regional basis, the President shall forward a copy of such agreement to each constituent
System Division, Federation or Subordinate Lodge which has members directly affected by
such agreement and also maintain at the Headquarters of the Brotherhood copies of any such
agreement available for inspection on request by any member or any employe whose rights
are affected thereunder.
The President shall not have the power to enter into any agreement
other than national agreements without the written consent of the
affected General Chairmen (Chairman). If the President is not able Prior
to receiveing the written consent of all affected
General Chairmen, he shall have the right to submit such agreement
directly to the affected rank and file for ratification or rejection. Such ratification
vote shall be by mail ballot referendum to all members in good standing affected by such
agreement. If a ratification is necessary, and it
shall be by mailed ballot referendum conducted by an impartial ballot
counting company. Any agreement made by any system division or federation shall
be ratified by the affected membership in the same manner. In the event the
affected membership ratifies the agreement, the President shall be empowered to enter into
the agreement. In the event the affected membership reject the agreement, the President
shall not be empowered to enter into the agreement.
The President shall forward a copy of such agreement to
each constituent system division, federation and subordinate lodge which has members
affected by such agreement and also maintain, at the headquarters of the Brotherhood,
copies of any such agreement available for inspection on request by any member or any
employee whose rights are affected thereunder.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 40
SUBMITTED BY NORTHWEST REGIONAL ASSOCIATION
ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 14, PARAGRAPH 6, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Credentials shall be issued to the Secretary-Treasurers of
Subordinate Lodges three (3) months in advance of a prior to
January 1 of the year of the Grand Lodge Convention. Credentials must be
signed by the Secretary-Treasurer of the Subordinate Lodge. In the event that the office
of the Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurer is vacant or the Subordinate Lodge
Secretary-Treasurer is elected as a Delegate or Alternate Delegate the President of the
Subordinate Lodge would sign the credential. Original credentials shall be given to the
duly elected delegates. Duplicate credentials shall be forwarded to the Grand Lodge
Secretary-Treasurer's office as soon as possible after the election of the delegates.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 41
SUBMITTED BY NORTHWEST REGIONAL ASSOCIATION
ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 14, PARAGRAPH 2, BE AMENDED TO
READ:
The International Association shall be composed of all General
Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, Assistant Chairmen and Secretary-Treasurers of System Divisions
or Federations, or others of comparable title, and all Grand Lodge Officers and
Appointees. Grand Lodge Appointees will be non-voting members of the
International Association.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 42
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1142
ARTICLE XXIV, SECTION 14, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Sec. 14. Endorsing of State and Provincial Candidates for Public
Office. State or Provincial Legislative Directors may submit to the Grand Lodge President
recommendations with respect to the endorsement of candidates for municipal, local, State
or Provincial office, and upon the Grand Lodge President's approval, such endorsements
will be publicized within the State and or
Province. State Legislative Directors may submit to the Grand Lodge President
recommendations with respect to the financial endorsement of candidates for State
Legislative office, and upon the Grand Lodge President's approval, such financial
endorsement will be made and publicized within the state. The funds for these endorsements
shall be drawn from the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Political Action
Committee account known as the Maintenance of Way Political League (MWPL). The funds
administered in the MWPL shall be identified by the state from which contributed and shall
be administered in a manner that allows not less than thirty (30) percent of a state's
contribution to be utilized for the endorsement of candidates for State Legislative office
as recommended by the State Legislative Director and the State Legislative board.
Prior to making any endorsement recommendations, State or
Provincial Legislative Directors shall notify members and officers living in the political
jurisdictions where endorsements are being considered and shall solicit the opinion of the
affected members concerning the propriety and efficacy of the
contemplated endorsement. Under no circumstances shall a State or Provincial Legislative
Director issue or publicize endorsements of any kind for candidates to national
office without the approval of the Grand Lodge President.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 43
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 509
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Thereafter, effective with the payment of dues for the
month of November 1990 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect nine-tenths (9/10) of
the average straight-time hourly rate-of-pay. Effective with the payment of dues for the
month of November 1991 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and five one
hundredths (1.05) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay, e Effective
with the payment of dues for the month of November 1992 1998
and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and two
tenths (1.2) three tenths (1.3) of the average straight
time hourly rate of pay. The average straight time hourly rate of pay will be based on the
information reflected in the annual statement published by the National Railway
Labor Conference Interstate Commerce Commission Statement No. A-300
for Maintenance of Way Employes for calendar year 1989 and each successive year.
Said amount shall be rounded to the nearest 25 cents, which additional sum shall be taken
into consideration when calculating any dues increase for the following year.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 44
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 509
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand
Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of one dollar and
seventy-five cents (1.75) eighty cents (80¢), as well as a
assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the United
States (U.S.) State and Canadian Provincial
Legislative Department Funds. The annual $8.00 assessment
Seventy cents (70) of this shall be re-distributed to the State
and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in
that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and
Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside
and to be placed in an Emergency Fund and
from which the President will have the authority to pay strike
benefits. If there is unused money left in a State or Provincial Legislative
Department Fund at the end of the year, that money will be returned to the United States
or Canadian Legislative Department Funds for use as directed by the Director Legislative
Department.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 45
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306
ARTICLE III, NEW SECTION:
During each year of his four year term of office, the
President shall visit at least five percent of the Brotherhood's subordinate lodges, at
either regular or special lodge meetings. His attendance at those subordinate lodge
meetings shall be proportioned by the subordinate lodges, region and system/division
affiliation.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 46
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306
ARTICLE IV, SECTION 3, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Sec. 3. The Vice Presidents will be assigned to the following
duties, namely:
Two to be located in Canada. Five to be located in the United
States. Those located in the United States shall be elected from one of each of five
regions comprising the Northeastern territory, the Northwestern territory, the
Southeastern territory, the Southwestern territory and the Western territory. The Grand
Lodge President shall designate the territory comprising each region and the territorial
assignments of the two located in Canada. The Grand Lodge Vice Presidents shall devote
their entire time to the upbuilding of the Brotherhood, to do such work as decided upon by
the Grand Lodge Officers at their annual meetings. They will work under the direct
instructions of the President. They shall visit and instruct all
Subordinate Lodges, within their respective regions, at least once per
four-year term. They shall assist the General Chairmen in their committees
and boards and shall have authority to examine and audit the records and books of any
Subordinate Lodge and shall institute civil and criminal action to protect the interests
of the Brotherhood when so directed by the President. Each Vice President shall prepare a
written report on their activities and responsibilities during their term to be presented
at each Regular Convention.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 47
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306
ARTICLE V, NEW SECTION:
During each year of his four year term of office, the
Secretary-Treasurer shall visit at least five percent of the Brotherhood's subordinate
lodges, at either regular or special lodge meetings. His attendance at those subordinate
lodge meetings shall be proportioned by the subordinate lodges, region and system/division
affiliation.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 48
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 306
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Sec. 4. Increases in the established initiation fee or in Grand
Lodge dues shall be made pursuant to majority vote of the rank-and-file members
casting votes by mail-ballot referendum, mailed to all members in good standing. The
mail-ballot referendum shall be conducted by an impartial ballot-counting company
delegates voting at a regular Grand Lodge Convention, or at a special Convention
of the Grand Lodge held upon not less than thirty (30) days' written notice to all System
Divisions or Federations and Subordinate Lodges entitled to such notice.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 49
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 469
NEW ARTICLE:
In the event any member of the BMWE is killed while on
duty for their respective railroad employer, at least one system officer from the
deceased's respective system federation must attend the funeral. In the event any member
of the BMWE is killed while on duty for their respective railroad employer, the President
of the Grand Lodge, or one of his or her agents, must attend the funeral of the deceased
member.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 50
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 469
ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 1, NEW PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO
READ:
Upon completion of the 1998 Grand Lodge Convention, the
President of Grand Lodge shall establish an independent system federation to represent the
members of the BMWE who work for the Chicago commuter railway system known as Metra. The
President, or one of his agents, shall convene a Joint Protective Board comprised of two
members from each respective subordinate lodge. These members will be elected by the rank
and file from each respective lodge and there will be one member representing the Track
Department and one member representing the B&B Department. These members will nominate
system officers consisting of a General Chairman, Assistant General Chairman,
Secretary-Treasurer, and Assistant Secretary-Treasurer. The rank and file will have thirty
calendar days from the close of nominations to elect said system officers. In the event of
a tie, there will be a run-off election and ballots will be received for a total of 14
calendar days. Upon election of officers, they will convene to establish the system
constitution and bylaws and present same to the membership for ratification. The
membership will have 30 calendar days to mail their ballots to the duly-elected
Secretary-Treasurer and will be either accepted or rejected by a majority of the eligible
voters who must be members in good standing with the BMWE. The new system federation will
be known as the Chicago Commuter Rail Federation. This system shall be comprised of all
members of the BMWE who are working for the Chicago commuter railroad known as Metra and
any and all members of the BMWE who, through purchase or lease of trackage rights, in the
Chicago area, are absorbed by Metra. Incoming subordinate lodges will break any connection
to their previous system federation and will be governed by the system federation known as
the Chicago Commuter System Federation and will have all rights and privileges afforded to
them under the Chicago Commuter System Federation constitution and bylaws.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 51
SUBMITTED BY PROVINCIAL LEGISLATIVE
DEPARTMENT
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand
Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well
as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, 9% of each such
monthly Grand Lodge dues payment, to be placed in the State and Provincial
Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed
to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members
residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of
the State and Provincial Legislative Department; discontinued and to
replace that revenue, Grand Lodge dues increased by sixty-seven cents per month effective
August 1, 1998. and For each monthly dues payment
received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall also set aside
twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and to be
placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike
benefits.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 52
SUBMITTED BY GRAND LODGE
ARTICLE XIII, BE AMENDED TO READ:
There shall be maintained at Headquarters a
location designated by the President a Department of Research and
Strategic Coordination. The head of this Department shall be appointed by the
President and approved by the majority of the elected Grand Lodge Officers. He
The Director of the Research and Strategic Coordination Department
shall devote his (her) time to coordinating the work of
the Department of Research and Strategic Coordination between the various Departments of
the Brotherhood, other unions within and outside of the Railroad industry, coordinating
national bargaining, assisting in the development of a strategic plan for the Brotherhood,
assisting the various Systems and Federations in the coordination of strategic planning
for collective bargaining and working on special projects assigned by the President.
The Director of Research shall, when deemed appropriate
by the President, be provided with an Assistant who shall primarily administer the
Department and perform various clerical functions but who shall also perform other tasks,
such as perform research and make presentations to various Brotherhood bodies, as directed
by the Director of Research and Strategic Coordination. The Assistant shall be appointed
by the President and approved by a majority of the Executive Board.
The Research and Strategic Coordination Department
shall also devote its time to the gathering and compiling of statistics in
the United States and Canada to be used in wage negotiations, conferences or hearings
before arbitration boards, or other constituted bodies when instructed to do so by the
President and shall also recommend, when appropriate, experts to assist in
developing such research. While not engageding
in the gathering of statistics for the above purpose
above tasks, he the Research and
Strategic Coordination Director and/or the Assistant shall do any other work
pertaining to the interests of the Brotherhood when called upon by the President.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 53
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 320
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 5, PARAGRAPH (a), BE AMENDED TO READ:
(a) A member coming under the provisions of a Union Shop Agreement
who becomes delinquent for all purposes by reason of failure to pay his dues and
assessments shall be considered in violation of said agreement; such violation requires
the filing of a citation notice and charging the member a service charge in the
amount of 10% of the unpaid dues for each month delinquent, after which dues
and assessment payments cannot be accepted.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 54
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 320
ARTICLE XXI, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH (a), BE AMENDED TO READ:
(a) Who leaves the service of the railway or transfers to or
becomes employed in a department not under the jurisdiction of the Brotherhood, or who is
employed in an official capacity by a railway, shall be entitled to apply for and receive
a Withdrawal Card without cost; or if he so desires, may continue his membership by
continuing to comply with all provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws applicable to
membership, including payment of full dues and assessments for a period of five
(5) years after which the member's seniority in all ranks and rosters in a department
under the jurisdiction of the Brotherhood will be frozen; provided, however,
that such a member will not be eligible to participate in or take any part in transacting
the business of this Brotherhood, except as provided in Article XVIII, Section 2. Members
holding Withdrawal Cards and returning to service in a position under the jurisdiction of
this Brotherhood for a period of thirty (30) calendar days must, within thirty-five (35)
calendar days from date of such re-employment, present and surrender such Withdrawal Card
to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Subordinate Lodge within the jurisdiction of which he is
employed, or to a direct representative of the Grand Lodge or System Division or
Federation and pay dues for the month in which he returns to service.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 55
SUBMITTED BY GRAND LODGE
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPHS 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 AND 7, BE
AMENDED TO READ:
Sec. 3. Each member shall be required to pay Grand Lodge dues and
assessments, System Division or Federation dues and assessments and Subordinate Lodge dues
and assessments.
Thereafter, e Effective
with the payment of dues for the month of November 1990 January
1998 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect nine-tenths (9/10)
one and two tenths of the average straight-time hourly
rate-of-pay. Effective with the payment of dues for the month of November 1991
January 1999 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and
five one hundredths (1.05) three and one half tenths (1.35)
of the average straight time hourly rate of pay, effective with the payment of dues for the
month of November 1992 and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodge dues shall
be adjusted to reflect one and two tenths (1.2) three and one
half tenths (1.35) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay. The
average straight time hourly rate of pay will be based on the information reflected in Interstate
Commerce Commission Statement No. A-300 for Maintenance of Way Employes for calendar year
1989 and each successive year the National Railway Labor Conference
published annual statement or if the National Railway Labor Conference published annual
statement is altered materially, an alternative equivalent formula shall be adopted and
approved by the Grand Lodge Officers so as to accurately reflect increases in rates-of-pay
provided for under National Agreements during the appropriate measurement period.
Said amount shall be rounded to the nearest 25 cents, which additional sum shall be taken
into consideration when calculating any dues increase for the following year.
In the event that the Interstate Commerce Commission
ceases to publish Statement No. A-300 on an annual basis, or alters it materially, the
annual statement published by the National Railway Labor Conference will be used as an
alternative equivalent formula. In the event that the National Railway Labor Conference
ceases to publish the annual statement or alters it materially, an alternative equivalent
formula shall be adopted so as to accurately reflect increases in rates-of-pay provided
for under National Agreements during the appropriate measurement period.
Effective October 31, 1990, the five dollar strike
assessment enacted at the 1986 Grand Lodge Convention shall be discontinued.
Note: Members who on July 12, 19908,
have paid dues beyond January 1, 19919, will be
considered in good standing for the period for which dues have been paid.
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand
Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢),
one dollar and seventy-five cents ($1.75) for the use and purposes of the State
and Provincial Legislative Department. as well as a assessment of
$8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial Legislative
Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the State and
Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members residing in that
State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of the State and
Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and
placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike
benefits. The Secretary-Treasurer shall allocate from the one dollar
and seventy five cents ($1.75) a sum of sixty-five cents (65¢) based upon the per capita
of dues payments received from that state or province in an account to be used in that
state or province for a twelve month period from the date the money was placed in the
state or provincial account at Grand Lodge. If the allocated 65¢ is not used for the
purpose designated by the President in a twelve (12) month period, the monies shall be
placed in the general account of the State and Provincial Legislative Fund. For each
monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall
set aside the sum of twenty-five cents (25¢) which will be placed in an Emergency Fund
from which the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits as well as meet
any emergency which can be considered detrimental to the Brotherhood.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 56
SUBMITTED BY GRAND LODGE
ARTICLE XX, SECTION 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Sec. 4. Any member who has 50 years of continuous membership in
the Brotherhood shall receive a life membership and appropriate merit awards, upon
request. Retirees who have less than 50 years of membership with the Brotherhood and wish
to become a life member may request to purchase a life membership in the Brotherhood. The
cost for a life membership will be determined by the number of years needed to equal 50
years of membership multiplied by 80% of the current retiree dues rate. Life members shall
continue to have all of the rights and benefits afforded a full dues-paying retired
member under in accordance with the provisions of
the Constitution and By-Laws.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 57
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104
ARTICLE XII, NEW SECTION:
A report by the Legislative Department concerning
matters pertaining to the good of the Brotherhood shall be printed in each and every
edition of the Journal.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 58
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104
ARTICLE XXI, SECTION 8, PARAGRAPH 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Any member in good standing shall be admitted as a visitor to any
Subordinate Lodge of the Brotherhood while said Subordinate Lodge is in session provided
he can prove that he is in good standing with his own Subordinate Lodge.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 59
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104
ARTICLE XXI, NEW SECTION:
Each month, Grand Lodge will issue receipt to each
member showing status of membership.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 60
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 104
ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 6, PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Every member in good standing of a Subordinate Lodge shall have
the right to attend all regular and special meetings of the a
Lodge and to participate in its deliberations and vote, and to express at such meetings
his views upon candidates in elections of the a
Lodge or upon any business properly before the meeting that pertains to the
good of the Brotherhood, subject, however, to such reasonable rules and
regulations as the a Subordinate Lodge shall
establish pertaining to the conduct of its meetings including its right to enforce
reasonable rules governing the responsibility of every member to his a
Subordinate Lodge and this Brotherhood as an institution and prohibiting conduct which
would interfere with the a Subordinate Lodge's
Lodge or this Brotherhood's performance of their legal or
contractual obligations.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 61
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 144
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, not
less than ten percent (10%) of that month's total Grand Lodge dues payment shall be
the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents
(80¢), as well as a assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in
the State and Provincial Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment
shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita
of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department
for the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative
Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and placed in an Emergency Fund
and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 62
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 144
ARTICLE XXII, ET AL, BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:
In Article XXII and at every other place in all other
Articles from Article I through and including Article XXVI of Grand Lodge Constitution and
Bylaws, change the term "subordinate lodge" to "local lodge".
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 63
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 144
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand
Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well as a
assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial
Legislative Department Fund. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed to the
State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members
residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of
the State and Provincial Legislative Department.
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge,
;and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set aside and placed in an
Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 64
SUBMITTED BY NORTHEASTERN SYSTEM FEDERATION
JOINT PROTECTIVE BOARD
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPHS 1 AND 10, BE AMENDED TO
READ:
PARAGRAPH 1:
Each member, including Subordinate Lodge
Secretary-Treasurers, shall be required to pay Grand Lodge dues and
assessments, System Division or Federation dues and assessments and Subordinate Lodge
dues.
PARAGRAPH 10:
Subordinate Lodge dues shall be uniform by System Divisions or
Federations Subject to the provisions of Section 4 of this Article, all
Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurers shall be exempt from the payment of all dues while
holding that office. Except that any Subordinate Lodge Secretary-Treasurer who is
delinquent for more than ninety (90) calendar days in the execution and filing of
subordinate lodge reports as required in accordance with Article XXII, Section 13, will be
responsible for the payment of full dues, fees and assessments retroactively for each
month, beginning the month such report was due and continuing each month until such
written report is finally compiled and received.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 65
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1302
ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 14, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Subordinate Lodges shall elect delegates and alternates to the
Grand Lodge Convention at a meeting held on or after January 1 of the year in which the
Convention convenes. All members in good standing of the Subordinate Lodge will be given
at least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing at their last known addresses of the
date, time and place at which election shall be held. The Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer
will be advised of the results of such elections in ample time for this information to be
recorded at the Grand Lodge. All expenses of said delegates shall be paid by Subordinate
Lodge or Lodges represented the Grand Lodge. An assessment of $1.00
per subordinate lodge member per month shall be placed in a Grand Lodge convention account
by the Grand Lodge Secretary-Treasurer to pay for lodging, travel expenses, meal per diem
and lost wages of subordinate lodge delegates to the Grand Lodge convention.
Any revenue remaining in the account after all
subordinate lodge delegates have been made whole shall be placed in the general fund.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 66
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1302
ARTICLE I, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH 5, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Every bona fide candidate for Grand Lodge office shall have
certain rights with respect to the distribution of campaign literature and freedom from
discrimination. The Grand Lodge will comply with all reasonable requests of all such
candidates to distribute, by mail or otherwise, at the candidate's expense, campaign
literature in aid of his candidacy to all members in good standing of the Brotherhood.
Whenever the Grand Lodge or its incumbent Officers authorize distribution to members, by
mail or otherwise, of campaign literature on behalf of any bona fide candidate for office
or on behalf of the Grand Lodge itself with reference to elections, similar distribution
shall be made by the Grand Lodge and its Officers for any other bona fide candidate if so
requested by such candidate, and equal treatment will be accorded as to the expense of
such distribution to be borne by such candidate. Every bona fide candidate shall have the
right upon request, once within thirty (30) days prior to Grand Lodge elections in which
he is a candidate, to inspect the list containing the names and last known addresses of
all members of the Brotherhood who are subject to Union Shop Agreements requiring
membership in the Brotherhood as a condition of their employment, which lists shall be
maintained by the Secretary-Treasurer at the Headquarters of the Brotherhood. Every
bona fide candidate for Grand Lodge office shall supply the Grand Lodge with a picture and
a brief campaign announcement of 250 words or less to be published in the Brotherhood of
Maintenance of Way Employes Journal. All information shall be published in the same
Journal edition as the last proposed bylaws changes prior to the Grand Lodge convention.
The Grand Lodge shall also provide adequate safeguards to insure that its elections are
fair and impartial, and any candidate has the right to request and designate an observer
at the polls and the counting of ballots.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 67
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1662
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 2, PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Distribution of the initiation fees shall be made as follows: $25.00
of the initiation fee shall revert to the General Fund of the Grand Lodge, with $25.00
reverting to the system division or federation treasury and $50.00 reverting to the
subordinate lodge's treasury.
(a) When applications are written by Grand Lodge Organizer
or Representative, $50.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the General Fund of the
Grand Lodge, with $25.00 reverting to the System Division or Federation treasury and
$25.00 reverting to the Subordinate Lodge's treasury.
(b) When applications are written by a System Division or
Federation Officer or representatives, $50.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the
System Division or Federation, with $25.00 reverting to Grand Lodge and $25.00 to the
Subordinate Lodge treasury.
(c) When applications are written by Subordinate Lodge
representatives, $50.00 of the initiation fee shall revert to the Subordinate Lodge
treasury, with $25.00 reverting to the Grand Lodge and $25.00 reverting to the System
Division or Federation treasury.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 68
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1662
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand
Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of one dollar and
seventy-five cents ($1.75) eighty cents (80¢), twenty-nine
cents (29¢) of which shall be placed in a legislative reserve fund on which the Grand
Lodge President may draw only for legislative activity directly related to the national
contract and similar individual railroad contracts or for unanticipated legislative events
of major importance to the Brotherhood as well as a assessment of
$8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the United States (U.S.)
State and Canadian Provincial
Legislative Department Funds. The annual $8.00 assessment
shall be re-distributed to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita
of dues paying members residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for
the use and purposes of the State and Provincial Legislative Department; From
the United States and Canadian Legislative Department fund, 35% shall be reserved for the
use of each State [or Provincial] Legislative Director on a per capita of dues paying
members living in each State and Province; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will
be set aside and to be placed in an Emergency Fund and from
which the President will have the authority to pay strike benefits.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 69
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1710
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 7, BE AMENDED TO READ:
For each monthly dues payment received by Grand Lodge, the Grand
Lodge Secretary-Treasurer shall set aside the sum of eighty cents (80¢), as well as a
assessment of $8.00 in August of each year, to be placed in the State and Provincial
Legislative Department Fund. No change in distribution of Grand Lodge dues,
fees, and assessments shall permit Grand Lodge funds allocated to the individual
legislative effort of any specific state or province to fall below the total amount
budgeted and/or otherwise afforded to the legislative effort of that state or province for
the preceding calendar year. When any state or province permits an amount equal to 150% or
more of its annual budget to accumulate in its legislative account, the Grand Lodge
President, with the consent of the Executive Board, may reallocate for other legislative
purposes any monies in excess of the amount budgeted for that state or province for the
succeeding twelve months. The annual $8.00 assessment shall be re-distributed
to the State and Provincial Legislative Department on a per capita of dues paying members
residing in that State and Provincial Legislative Department for the use and purposes of
the State and Provincial Legislative Department; and twenty-five cents (25¢) will be set
aside and placed in an Emergency Fund and the President will have the authority to pay
strike benefits.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 70
SUBMITTED BY CANADIAN SYSTEM FEDERATION
ARTICLE XXII, SECTION 9, PARAGRAPH 4, BE AMENDED TO READ:
All Officers of Subordinate Lodges shall be nominated and elected
as hereafter provided. Nominations and elections shall be held once every three
(3) years commencing with the Fall elections in 1960 at the first regular meeting of each
Subordinate Lodge in the last three (3) months of the year. In the
United States, nominations and elections shall be held once every three (3) years
commencing with the fall elections in 1960 at the first regular meeting of each
subordinate lodge in the last three (3) months of the year. In Canada, nominations and
elections shall be held once every four (4) years commencing with the fall elections in
1998 at the first regular meeting of each subordinate lodge in the last three (3) months
of the year. At the option of the Subordinate Lodge, nominations may be held
either at the same meeting at which elections are held or at a meeting preceding the first
regular meeting of the last three (3) months when elections are conducted, provided that
all members in good standing of the Subordinate Lodge have been given at least fifteen
(15) days' advance notice in writing at their last known home addresses of the date, time
and place at which nominations shall be made and the date, time and place at which
elections shall be held; and provided, further, that Subordinate Lodges may at their
option permit nominations to be made by mail to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Lodge
during the period following the notice and preceding the meeting at which the election is
to be conducted. All Officers shall be elected from duly nominated candidates as aforesaid
and no "write-in" candidates are permitted.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 71
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1649
ARTICLE IV, SECTION 3, BE AMENDED TO READ:
The Vice Presidents will be assigned to the following duties,
namely:
Two to be located in Canada. Five to be located in the United
States. Those located in the United States shall be elected from one of each of five
regions comprising the Northeastern territory, the Northwestern territory, the
Southeastern territory, the Southwestern territory and the Western territory Region
1. Comprising of the Burlington Northern Roads, Region 2. Comprising of the Union Pacific
Roads, Region 3. Comprising of the CSX Transportation Roads, Region 4. Comprising of the
Norfolk Southern Roads, Region 5. At large from the other roads. The Grand
Lodge President shall designate the territory comprising each region and the territorial
assignments of the two located in Canada. The Grand Lodge Vice Presidents shall devote
their entire time to the upbuilding of the Brotherhood, to do such work as decided upon by
the Grand Lodge Officers at their annual meetings. They will work under the direct
instructions of the President. They shall visit and instruct Subordinate Lodges, assist
the General Chairmen in their committees and boards and shall have authority to examine
and audit the records and books of any Subordinate Lodge and shall institute civil and
criminal action to protect the interests of the Brotherhood when so directed by the
President. Each Vice President shall prepare a written report on their activities and
responsibilities during their term to be presented at each Regular Convention.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 72
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1649
ARTICLE VI, SECTION 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:
The quorum of the Executive Board shall be four (4)
members five (5) members. These Executive Board members shall be
elected 1 to be located in Canada and 5 to be located in the United States. These located
in United States shall be elected from one of each of the 5 regions. Region 1. Comprising
of the Burlington Northern Roads, Region 2. Comprising of the Union Pacific Roads, Region
3. Comprising of the CSX Transportation Roads, Region 4. Comprising of the Norfolk
Southern Roads, Region 5. At large from the other roads.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 73
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1649
ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 14, PARAGRAPH 5, BE AMENDED TO
READ:
For establishment of Regional Associations, the following Regions
shall be created:
Northeast Region Southwest Region
Northwest Region Western Region
Southeast Region
1) Comprising of the Burlington Northern Roads
2) Comprising of the Union Pacific Roads
3) Comprising of the CSX Transportation Roads
4) Comprising of the Norfolk Southern Roads
5) At large from the other roads
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 74
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062
3073 AND 3094
ARTICLE I, SECTION 1, PARAGRAPH 1, (AND ALL SUBSEQUENT
BYLAW REFERENCES TO SYSTEM DIVISIONS AND FEDERATIONS BE SUBSTITUTED WITH REGION
DIVISIONS) BE AMENDED TO READ:
This Organization shall be known as the Brotherhood of Maintenance
of Way Employes, hereinafter referred to as the Brotherhood. It shall consist of a Grand
Lodge, System Divisions and Federations and such Subordinate Lodges (5)
five Region Divisions in United States located 1. Northeast 2. Southeast 3. Midwest 4.
Southwest 5. West and two (2) Region Divisions in Canada 1. East 2. West with subordinate
Lodges with the regions, as may hold legal unreclaimed charters granted by
the Grand Lodge.
ARTICLE I, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPH 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:
The Grand Lodge shall consist of a President, seven (7) Vice
Presidents, five (5) of whom shall reside in and be citizens of the United States
and two (2) of whom shall reside in and be citizens of Canada within
the Region Divisions and be citizens of the United States and two (2) of whom shall reside
within the Region Divisions and be citizens of Canada; a Secretary-Treasurer,
six (6) members of the Executive Board, five (5) of whom shall reside in and be citizens
of the United States and one (1) of whom shall reside in and be a citizen of Canada. A
Chaplain, a Messenger, and such Sentinels and Sergeants-at-Arms as may be necessary shall
be appointed by the President at each Convention of the Grand Lodge.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 75
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062,
3073 and 3094
ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 1, PARAGRAPH 1 (1), BE AMENDED TO
READ:
Organization and Composition. A Department shall be established
and maintained within the Brotherhood to be known as the Protective Department. The
purpose of this Department shall be the promotion of service conditions and protection of
its members engaged on the railways in the departments represented by the Brotherhood. For
the purpose of conducting the business of the Protective Department the following agencies
shall be established and maintained:
(1) System Division or Federation Region
Divisions, Joint Protective Boards.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 76
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062
3073 AND 3094
ARTICLE I, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPH 1, BE AMENDED TO READ:
The foregoing Grand Lodge Officers shall be nominated and elected
at the regular quadrennial Conventions of the Grand Lodge by a representative majority
vote of the duly accredited delegates elected by secret ballot as hereafter provided in
this Constitution and By-Laws; provided, however, that the two (2) Vice Presidents and the
member of the Executive Board from Canada shall be nominated and elected by delegates
from Canadian System Federations rank and file from Canadian Region
Divisions and the five (5) Vice Presidents and the five (5) members of the
Executive Board from the United States Region Divisions shall be
nominated and elected by delegates rank and file
from the United States Region Divisions System
Divisions or Federation. Each of the five (5) Vice Presidents and five (5)
members of the Executive Board from the United States shall be from a System Division or
Federation in his respective region and shall be nominated and elected by delegates from
his respective region. Provided further, that the Grand Lodge President and Grand Lodge
Secretary-Treasurer shall be nominated and elected by a representative majority vote of
the delegates from both Canada and the United States. Grand Lodge Officers shall serve for
a term of four (4) years unless removed by death, resignation or for cause, and shall be
eligible for re-election. They shall be installed during the session of Grand Lodge in
which they are elected, their installation and term of office to be effective commencing
September 1 following election except in the case of filling an unexpired term, when such
Officer shall take charge of his office immediately upon being elected and he shall serve
for the remainder of the term; provided, however, that the term of office of any temporary
Grand Lodge Officer will expire immediately upon the election and installation of his
successor.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 77
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062
3073 AND 3094
ARTICLE VII, SECTION 2, BE AMENDED TO READ:
The salaries of the President, Vice Presidents,
Secretary-Treasurer, Vice Chairman and appointees shall be on an
annual basis, and shall be paid in equal semi-monthly installments.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 78
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062
3073 AND 3094
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 3, PARAGRAPHS 2, 4 AND 7, BE AMENDED
TO READ:
PARAGRAPH 2:
Thereafter, effective with the payment of dues for the month of
November 1990 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect nine-tenths (9/10) of the
average straight-time hourly rate-of-pay. Effective with the payment of dues for the month
of November 1991 Grand Lodge dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and five one hundredths
(1.05) of the average straight time hourly rate of pay, effective with the payment of dues
for the month of November 1992 and January of each succeeding year Grand Lodge
dues shall be adjusted to reflect one and two tenths (1.2) of the average
straight time hourly rate of pay. In June 2002 and January of each succeeding
year Grand Lodges dues shall be adjusted to reflect three and five tenth (3.5) minus three
(3) dollars consolidation reduction of dues of the average straight time hourly rate of
pay. The average straight time hourly rate of pay will be based on the
information reflected in Interstate Commerce Commission Statement No. A-300 for
Maintenance of Way Employes for calendar year 1989 and each successive year. Said amount
shall be rounded to the nearest 25 cents, which additional sum shall be taken into
consideration when calculating any dues increase for the following year.
PARAGRAPH 4:
Effective October 31, 1990, the five dollar strike assessment
enacted at the 1986 Grand Lodge Convention shall be discontinued. A $500,000.00
transfer from the strike funds shall be placed into the General fund ear marked for the
use exclusively in advancing, educating and legislating the interests of the membership in
next round of bargaining under the Railway Labor Act in year 2000 Local or National
Agreements. This advancing the memberships interest should include a study of the physical
effects of our working environment, lower back trauma and other repetitive motion
disorders. The accumulation of these trauma and how actuarial studies, insurance costs,
Federal Employee Liability claims and Railroad Retirement disability data provide
information and documentation for reduced requirements for retirement pensions. A
accounting of the fund will be separate and distinct here after called the Negotiation
fund.
PARAGRAPH 7:
System Division or Federation dues shall be uniform by
System Divisions or Federations. All dues will be uniform and
collected by the International.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 79
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062
3073 AND 3094
ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 5, PARAGRAPHS 1 AND 2, BE AMENDED
TO READ:
PARAGRAPH 1:
Nomination and Election of System Division or Federation
Officers. Effective with elections to be held during 1960 and thereafter, all Officers of
System Divisions or Federations shall be elected not less often than once every four (4)
years either; (1) by secret ballot vote of the members in good standing of each
Subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of such System Division or Federation or (2) by
delegates and incumbent Officers of the System Division or Federation who have been
elected by secret ballot vote of the members of said Subordinate Lodges to represent them
on such System Division or Federations. Any incumbent Officer of a System Division or
Federation originally elected by secret ballot vote to represent a Subordinate Lodge on
the System Division or Federation may continue to participate in future elections if so
permitted by the System Division's or Federation's Constitution and/or By-Laws and so long
as he remains an Officer and provided that Subordinate Lodges are given an opportunity to
elect new delegates prior to each election held by the System Division or Federation
Regional Officers. Effective with the election to be held during 2002 and
thereafter, in accordance with Article XXIII, section 22 by secret ballot vote of the
members in good standing of each respective Region.
PARAGRAPH 2:
If such elections are conducted by secret ballot vote of
the members in good standing of each Subordinate Lodge comprising the System Federation or
Division, such election shall be conducted by referendum of said membership and a
plurality of the votes cast for each office shall be sufficient to elect. Prior to any
such election a reasonable opportunity to nominate candidates shall be afforded by at
least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing to members of the Subordinate Lodges at
their last known addresses of the date, time, and manner in which nominations will be
received and the election held. If elections by System Divisions or Federations are
conducted by the alternative method of having only Subordinate Lodge delegates and
incumbent Officers as aforesaid participate in the election, then the elections shall be
by majority vote after at least fifteen (15) days' advance notice in writing to the
delegates and incumbent Officers of the date, time, and place in which nominations shall
be made and the elections conducted. All such elections will be
conducted by secret mail in ballot, Grand Lodge shall mail to each member in good
standing, a ballot listing each position to be voted on and the candidate for each
position in each respective Region. A plurality of the vote from the members returning
ballots shall be declared the winner of the election. Nomination and election of Regional
Officers. Effective with the election to be held during 2002 and thereafter in accordance
with Article XXIII, Section 22.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 80
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGES 3008, 3023,
3062
3073 AND 3094
ARTICLE XXIII, SECTION 22, BE AMENDED TO READ:
Consolidation of System Divisions or Federations into
Regions shall occur on June 22, 2002 when the System Division or Federation absolve the
System Divisions or Federation into the Region where they reside. On June 22, 2002 all
System Divisions or Federation will be declared null and void and the Constitution and
By-law of the System Divisions Federations will no longer exist. All General Chairman of
the System Division or Federations System Division or Federation holding full time paid
positions will become officers of the Brotherhood in the Regions where they currently
work, with the Vice President in the Region as their immediate executive. These position
will be eliminated either through attrition or on June 22, 2004.
The foregoing Grand Lodge Officers below the rank of
General Chairman, Vice Chairman or equivalent shall be nominated by having two (2) lodges
within the vice chairman's district nominate him for the position to the Grand Lodge
between April 1 and April 15 of the election year. He shall be elected by rank and file
membership vote conducted in June 22, 2002 prior to the Grand Lodge quadrennial Convention
by a majority vote of members in good standing by secret ballot conducted by mail. On or
before May 15, 2002 of the Convention year and every four (4) years thereafter Grand Lodge
shall mail to each member in good standing, a ballot listing each position to be voted on
and the candidate for each position in each respective Region. Ballots shall be mailed to
a reputable Ballot counting firm chosen in March by the Executive Board. Ballots shall be
accepted up to and including June 22, of the election year. If June 22 is a Saturday or
Sunday ballots shall be accepted the following business day. The candidate receiving a
plurality of the vote from the members returning ballots shall be declared the winner of
the election.
The vice chairman's District will be the district or
territory previously determined by System Divisions or Federation. The vice chairman
position will be paid $48,000.00 per year and all reasonable expenses will be paid in
accordance with his position and duties.. When two or more Systems of
Railways are consolidated and operated as one unit, the Joint Protective Boards on such
Systems of Railways may consolidate or federate in order to facilitate the representation
of the members thereon, in the following manner.
When two or more Systems of Railways of approximately
equal mileage and importance are consolidated, the Joint Protective Boards on such Systems
may meet in joint session. At such joint session, existing Constitutions and/or By-Laws
shall be suspended and all Officers' positions declared vacant, and a new Constitution
and/or By-Laws suitable for the government of the Consolidated System Division or
Federation shall be adopted and new Officers elected.
Where a small System of Railway is being consolidated or
absorbed by a large System of Railway, the System Organization on such small absorbed
System may become affiliated with the System Organization on the large absorbing System
and shall be governed by the Constitution and/or By-Laws in effect on such larger System
with respect to representation and otherwise.
In all cases of consolidations of two (2) or more System
Divisions or Federations, the funds of those which consolidate shall revert to the System
Division or Federation in which they are consolidated; however, all records shall become
the property of and be returned to Grand Lodge for such distribution as may be
appropriate.
In all cases of abandonment of a System Division or
Federation, the funds and records shall be returned to Grand Lodge in accordance with the
procedure hereinbefore provided in Article XXII, Section 2, for dissolution of Subordinate
Lodges.
1998 PROPOSAL NO. 81
SUBMITTED BY SUBORDINATE LODGE 1296
ARTICLE XIX, SECTION 4, PARAGRAPHS 1 AND 2, BE AMENDED TO
READ:
Increases in the established initiation fee or in Grand
Lodge dues shall be made pursuant to majority vote of the delegates voting at a
regular Grand Lodge Convention, or at a special Convention of the Grand Lodge held upon
not less than thirty (30) days' written notice to all System Divisions or Federations and
Subordinate Lodges entitled to such notice. Increases in Grand Lodge dues will
be voted on by all Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way employees in good standing on a set
date by mail-in ballots to be mailed out to members on date set by Grand Lodge and
returned to Grand Lodge in sixty (60) days from set date. Ballots not marked for or
against when returned become void. Ballots not returned become void.
Any increases in dues by Joint Protective Boards or System
Divisions or Federations shall be effected as follows: All dues increases by
joint protective boards or system divisions or federations shall be voted on by all
Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way employees in good standing represented by said joint
protective boards or system divisions or federations by mail-in ballot. Ballots to be
mailed out to members on date set by joint protective board or system division or
federation and returned in sixty (60) days from set date. Ballots not marked for or
against when returned become void. Ballots not returned become void. By
majority vote of the delegates to a regular Convention of the Joint Protective Board,
System Division or Federation; or, if at a special Convention, by majority vote of the
delegates after not less than thirty (30) days' written notice to each of the Subordinate
Lodges comprised within such Joint Protective Board, System Division or Federation, or by
majority vote of the members in good standing of each of the Subordinate Lodges comprised
within said Protective Board, System Division or Federation voting in a membership
referendum conducted by secret ballot; or by majority vote of the members of the System
Division or Federation Joint Protective Board or similar governing body, pursuant to
express authority contained in the System Division's or Federation's Constitution and/or
By-Laws; provided, however, that such increase shall be effective only until the next
regular Convention of the System Division or Federation. |