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.
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