Limbo Time Talking Points

• The Supreme Court ruled in 1996, that time spent on a train after the hours of service had expired, where no service was performed, would be classified as "limbo time," neither on duty, nor off duty, while waiting for transportation to a final release point.
• The Carriers require crews to remain alert to ensure the safety of the train while they wait.
• Since the Supreme Court's determination was made, the Carriers have increasingly abused use of limbo time every year. There is no incentive to relieve crews in a timely manner.
• The 2003 Contract included language to curtail the increased abuse of limbo time. The Carriers did not abide by their agreement and in 2006 abuse reached an all time high.
• Limbo time is an easy fix -- eliminate it entirely, allowing crews to reach their final release point within the 12 hour maximum allowed under the Hours of Service law. A rail safety bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 1^st that greatly restricts the Carriers ability to use limbo time and the circumstances surrounding its use. Even though the bill does not entirely eliminate it, it does set forth caps on the number of hours, and penalties if those maximum hours are exceeded. For additional provisions contained in the Federal Rail Safety Act, click here.
• Eliminating limbo time will have positive results:
• Increased morale because employees will know their tour of duty will only be 12 hours;
• Decreased fatigue by eliminating the excessive time spent on trains waiting for relief or transportation;
• Increased safety for the general public because crews carrying hazardous materials cargo are more alert;
• Potential for increase in Carriers bottom line by having more rested crews available for duty, thereby allowing trains to get over the road.
• (Add your own stories - they personalize the issue)
• Please vote for H.R. 2095, which it comes to the floor.