Bus Drivers Union Proposes Hours Change
The union representing
TriMet bus drivers has come up with an idea to stop them from working too many hours. The
Amalgamated Transit Union proposes requiring drivers to have at least ten hours off between shifts. Union President Bruce Hansen says the time to study the problem is over.
A TriMet spokesperson tells The Oregonian they welcome any ideas the union has to offer, but says the big question is cost. TriMet relies on split shifts, where drivers work an early shift and then take a break before rush hour. The union wants to do away with that, but says it can help TriMet figure out new ways to schedule that won't require hiring lots of new drivers.
Meanwhile, contract negotiations have stalled over a dispute about public access to meetings.