Governor Jerry Brown of California intervened this weekend to avert the possible strike of rail workers in San Francisco. The strike threatened to have a crippling affect on the morning and afternoon rush hour commutes.
The Democrat effectively prohibited workers from walking out for the next seven days, after both sides failed in their attempts to reach an agreement in their contract negotiations.
Both state and federal mediators have been working without any success with the negotiators for BART, the area transit system and the two different unions that represent workers.
Negotiations went well into the night to try to avoid the midnight deadline to avert the strike. However, not solution was found in time.
Nevertheless, to prevent complete travel chaos, Brown appointed a board of three members to investigate the stroke and in his letter to both sides spoke of the state law that prevents a walkout while there is an inquiry of one week taking place.
Brown said in his letter that he had to take action, since the possible strike would have significantly disrupted the public transportation and endangered the public’s welfare, safety and health.
Residents in and around San Francisco were bracing for a possible strike, even though talks continued through the night, with some people sleeping at relatives or friends homes to be closer to their work.
On Thursday, the unions released a notice of 72 hours of a possible strike by the 2,400 workers. The rail system in San Francisco carries more than 400,000 passengers each day and its service is a critical link in the overall transportation system of the city.
Union negotiators were butting heads with management on safety issues, benefits and wages.
They contend that even though they have been offered an 8% raise over four years, they would take home less money after having to pay higher contributions to health insurance and pensions.
