Transit workers union calls MTA’s opening contract demands ‘slap in the face’ as talks kick off

John Chiarello, president of TWU’s Local 100, posted a social media video on Thursday in which he called the MTA’s opening demands in collective bargaining for the union’s new three-year contract a “slap in the face” and a “disgrace.” He charged that the agency is proposing the union’s 40,000 New York City Transit members pay more for health insurance and emergency room visits, accept reduced overtime, and abide by stricter sick time rules.