In the wake of tragic bus accidents throughout the nation in recent weeks, bus employees everywhere are under the microscope. Our Union urges its 750 bus employees to follow every rule and procedure, and when in doubt, always err on the side of caution. In one recent case, the Union saved a bus mechanic’s job after a wheel lug nut was discovered loose, by proving he did a thorough inspection, and arguing the bus route was loaded with potholes that jarred the lug nuts loose. In another case, we won back-pay for a bus driver who was falsely accused of using his cell phone while driving, after we produced the driver’s cell phone records. Meanwhile, the Teamsters are pushing for legislation that would allow for an employee’s right to an independent hearing if a school district or municipality unfairly orders its bus company (such as First Student or Durham) to discipline or terminate a bus driver. Presently, union bus employees are entitled to an independent hearing if the termination is ordered by the company itself.