Metro Council approves safety changes for more than 1,400 Metro Transit bus and LRT drivers

MINNEAPOLIS -- Metro Transit buses and light rails could soon be a lot safer for drivers. 

On Wednesday night, the Metro Council voted unanimously to approve safety policy changes in a proposal supported by the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1005.

These changes will benefit more than 1,400 Metro Transit drivers across the Twin Cities.

Emmanul Butler, a 3-year driver, and Judith Jackson, a 21-year driver, both had traumatic interactions while on the job for Metro Transit.

"My second year in as an operator, I was viciously assaulted," said Butler.

"I've had a few instances where people have been verbally abusive and it's jarring," said Jackson.

Their experiences are examples of what prompted ATU Local 1005 to for safety improvements.

Approved changes include:

• Faster response times during calls for help
• Mental health and psychological support for operators
• Installing protective barriers for bus drivers, similar to what light rail operators have
• Opening an investigation immediately after a transit operator is assaulted

Kenn Peters has been a driver for 15 years and says these changes mapped his future with the company.

"I will probably stay and finish out my career time here, now with Metro Transit, versus a few months ago, when I was considering leaving," said Peters.

ATU members say they feel empowered to push for even more safety implementations, following this win. One of their next pushes is for paid time off after experiencing any type of assault while working.

"I was traumatized and to find out that I didn't get any time to recover," said Butler.

"Sometimes it takes more than a day, you need maybe some real counseling to get you back out there," said Jackson.

The Met Council says these safety changes will be implemented over the next few weeks.

To see the full proposal, click here.