MBTA Union Pushing Back Against Privatization Proposal

(AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

BOSTON (AP) — A union representing Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority workers is pushing back against plans to privatize fare collection services.

Boston Carmen’s Union, Local 589 President James O’Brien says privatization doesn’t equal improved service or reduced costs.

O’Brien says the change threatens the jobs of as many as 200 workers, including those who work in the MBTA’s fare collection operations.

That includes workers in the Charlestown “money room” who count fares from MBTA passengers, tolls from drivers on the Massachusetts Turnpike and parking meter deposits from the City of Cambridge.

O’Brien says all Carmen’s Union employees undergo criminal background checks and employees working in the money room undergo credit checks before they can begin working there.

O’Brien says the union is planning to step up its criticism over the next two weeks.