I have terminal Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. I was employed by several Railroads in the maintenance and construction thereof. Exposed to creosote.
Which was outlawed some time ago. I understand the railroads " lobbied congress to grant them special exception. For the continued use, claiming hardship, no economical alternative wood treatment.
There has been case law established under the Federal Railroad Liability Act 1908. Accepting, lobbing congress, knowing the danger as negligence. A requirement specific to determine redress, retirees, current employees, survivors.
As it stands there seem's to be some issue relevant to consecutive years of service. As accrued under the Railroad Retirement System. This is where the law firms fail the victims. They wont a cash cow to base on previous decisions.
The simple truth is a Railroad could be negligent the first day of any persons employment.
Congress should make amendment to the FLEA law. To include employees of contracting firms. As well as widen the parameters defining survivors to reflect society's change since 1908.
The railroad industry is at present, lobbying Congress, to dispense with FELA legislation. They have such resource.
The America, I believed I was building. Will have an increasing number of dead railroaders.
It's doubtfull I will survive any redress of grivence.
My significant other, who I loved deeply, who gave much of herself to the industry.
The less than conventional lifestyle.
Should be afforded some compensation as well.
