Philadelphia, PA – A potential strike by members of the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) could disrupt public transportation services in Philadelphia starting at 12:01 AM on Thursday, November 7. The announcement comes as TWU members express their discontent over ongoing negotiations with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).
SMART-TD Alternate Vice President Anthony Petty, who represents our SEPTA members in their general committee, had this to say to SMART News, “SMART-TD and Local 1594 stand with our brothers and sisters at TWU local 234. We are involved in separate negotiations with different timelines, but we are both trying to reach similar goals. Their fight is our fight.”
Union leaders from both SMART-TD and TWU are pushing SEPTA for safer working conditions and improved compensation. SMART-TD is still negotiating with SEPTA, and our agreement does not expire until November 18. No job action can be taken by SMART-TD members until the appropriate processes are completed.
However, in the event that you are confronted with a picket line or similar activity, Section 92 of Article 21-B in the SMART constitution states the following.
” When a strike of any other nationally recognized labor organization
is in effect and danger to the safety of our members exists in or about
the area affected by the strike, and/or if there exists any substantial
present or potential threat of danger to the members en route to or
from their work, and/or to the members’ families, it is the policy of
SMART to support its members in declining to enter the territory
directly affected.”
If you feel your safety is at risk due to the actions of a striking union, you should notify your supervisor immediately and document your concerns. Once you are in a secure location, ask your local union officers for further guidance.
Impact of a strike on commuters
As negotiations continue, commuters are advised to stay informed about the situation. If the TWU decides to strike, SEPTA could face significant operational disruptions, affecting bus, trolley, and regional rail services across the city. SMART-TD and the leadership team at Local 1594 will keep you informed.
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