(WASHINGTON) – The Teamsters Union support bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D, CA), U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and U.S. Rep. John Katko (R, NY) that would authorize funding for programs to establish training and technology improvements to help mitigate assaults against transit workers.

The Transit Worker and Pedestrian Protection Act (H.R. 1139/S. 436) would establish a timeline of two years for transit agencies to develop bus and rail risk reduction programs in coordination with transit workers and labor organizations. The legislation would also create funding for implementation of the programs over a five-year period.

“The Transit Worker and Pedestrian Protection Act represents a critical step toward ensuring workers in this industry are afforded the best on-the-job protection and training available,” said Rick Middleton, Director of the Teamsters Passenger Transportation Division. “The Teamsters Union supports this legislation and thanks Rep. Napolitano, Sen. Van Hollen and Rep. Katko for taking on this important issue.”

The Teamsters Union represents more than 56,000 transit workers in the public and private sectors.

“All transit workers deserve a safe workplace,” said Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa. “Whether they drive a bus or work on the rails, these men and women should have the training and technology to help prevent any harm from assault on the job. We fully support this legislation.”

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.

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