Many of us think of the SMART-TD’s Designated Legal Counsel as “The FELA guys” who come to our Local meetings. Members in Minnesota learned DLC does a lot more for our organization.
The recent two-person crew victory in the state didn’t magically happen. It took many people and many years to pull, push, and drag it over the finish line, says SMART-TD Minnesota State Legislative Director Nick Katich.
And Designated Legal Counsel law firm Hunegs, LeNeave, and Kvas played a major part by stepping up and making a major contribution, he said.
“We got our bills through House and Senate Transportation committees and the next stops were in Judiciary,” Katich said. “While railroaders can speak to why a two-person crew is necessary, it takes a lawyer to testify before Judiciary and be able to cite case law off the cuff.”
HLK had a representative who, in two separate hearings, volunteered his time, talent and vocation to the betterment of rail labor and a successful outcome for the bill.
“I fear we would not have made it out of committee,” said Katich. “We all owe a debt of gratitude.”
Please thank your DLC for all they do to support our Union, workplace safety, and worker rights.
Related News
- Union Sportsmen’s Alliance Celebrates 20 Years With 20 Benelli M2 Shotguns
- Funeral Arrangements Begin Sunday for Brother Scott Shoemaker
- Wildfire Smoke Is a Workplace Hazard. Don’t Ignore It.
- TRO Issued to SMART-TD Members on CSX to Refrain from Self-Help
- One Month Left to Register for the Baltimore RTS!
- Local 1590 Unanimously Ratifies New Agreement with WeDriveU
- “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is”: SMART-TD Challenges CSX to Make Its Current Contract Offer Public
- FTA Shares Resources to Help Recognize Human Trafficking
- Local 1504 Member Pursues Specialized Treatment While Battling Stage 4 Colon Cancer
- Who Will Lead Your Local? 2026 Elections Put the Future in Your Hands