(Luz Lazo/The Washington Post)Members of Metro’s largest labor union are planning a “sick-out” Friday to protest the transit agency’s new absenteeism policy. ATU Local 689 President Jackie L. Jeter accused the agency of putting workers and passengers at risk by rejecting the surge of requests. ATU Local 689 spokesman David Stephen said Metro workers have the right to take a sick day as long as they give three days’ notice, according to Metro’s new policy. The policy also added extra steps to vet workers’ medical absences, requiring that Metro’s internal Office of Medical Services — not workers’ direct supervisors — review and approve sick leave requests and doctors’ notes. Earlier this month, Metro sent an email to the union, warning them that they are not allowed to hold union meetings on Metro property.

Source: Washington Post April 26, 2017 15:31 UTC