State Rep. Calls For Binding Arbitration to Resolve SEPTA Contract

We just got this release from state Rep. Brendan Boyle:

Boyle introducing resolution calling for binding arbitration in SEPTA strike

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 6 -- State Rep. Brendan F. Boyle, D-Phila./Montgomery is introducing a House resolution calling on both sides in the ongoing SEPTA strike to agree to binding arbitration to resolve the impasse.

"After eight months without a contract, and four days of a strike with no end in sight, it is clear that binding arbitration is needed," said Boyle. "In this specific context, binding arbitration is a reasonable way to obtain a contract that treats both parties fairly and gets SEPTA back up and running."

Boyle added, "Currently, with no resolution to this impasse, all sides are losing and will continue to suffer. SEPTA riders have no way to get to work, which hurts them and the local economy of the Philadelphia region. SEPTA workers are out of work and going without pay. Those who drive and don't use SEPTA are also losing because they are now forced to endure crippling traffic, with the dramatic increase of vehicles on the street."

Boyle's resolution will be introduced in the House on Monday, and the lawmaker said members could vote on it early in the week.

More than 5,000 members of the Transport Workers Union Local 234 began striking on Nov. 3 after leaders rejected a contract proposal from SEPTA for the next several years. The union has worked without a contract for eight months.