Fraternal Order of Transit Police Reaches Tentative Agreement with SEPTA to End Strike

SEPTA officers to resume regular patrols following months-long stalemate

After a months-long stalemate, the Fraternal Order of Transit Police (FOTP) has reached a tentative agreement with SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) to end the strike. The strike, which began on Wednesday, has caused disruptions in public transportation services across Philadelphia. However, with this new agreement in place, SEPTA officials have announced that officers will return to their regular patrols immediately. The agreement will now be presented to both the FOTP and the SEPTA Board for approval, marking a significant step towards resolving the labor dispute.

Negotiations and the Role of Pennsylvania Governor

Negotiators from both SEPTA and the FOTP have been working tirelessly to reach a resolution, with the assistance of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his administration. Governor Shapiro’s involvement and communication with all parties involved in the negotiations have been instrumental in reaching this tentative agreement. SEPTA CEO and General Manager Leslie S. Richards expressed gratitude for the governor’s support, emphasizing the importance of public safety throughout the process.

Addressing the Key Issue and Achieving Equality

The key issue that led to the strike, according to the FOTP, was the lack of equality with other transit workers who had already reached an agreement with SEPTA in October. The FOTP was seeking parity with the terms offered to other unions, and the new agreement addresses this concern. The transit police union has secured a 13% raise over 36 months, a more favorable outcome compared to the previously insisted upon 43 months by SEPTA managers. FOTP Vice President Troy Parham expressed satisfaction with the agreement, stating that the union’s main goal was to receive timely increases comparable to other SEPTA unions.

Concessions and Signing Bonus

In reaching the tentative agreement, the FOTP made one concession: accepting a $3,000 signing bonus. However, this was outweighed by the gains achieved in terms of salary increases and improved parity with other SEPTA unions. The FOTP’s ability to secure a more favorable timeline for raises demonstrates the effectiveness of their negotiations and the importance of their demands being met.

Return to Regular Shifts and Full Staffing Levels

SEPTA police officers will be returning to their regular shifts by Saturday afternoon, bringing much-needed relief to the city’s public transportation system. SEPTA officials have assured the public that the department will be at full staffing levels no later than 11 p.m., ensuring the safety and security of commuters and passengers.

Conclusion: The tentative agreement reached between the Fraternal Order of Transit Police and SEPTA marks a significant milestone in resolving the strike that has disrupted public transportation services in Philadelphia. With the assistance of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, negotiations have resulted in an agreement that addresses the key issue of equality and provides a favorable timeline for salary increases. As SEPTA officers return to their regular patrols, the city can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that public safety is once again prioritized. The approval of the agreement by both the FOTP and the SEPTA Board will solidify this resolution, allowing for the smooth functioning of Philadelphia’s transit system.