Arbitrator Reinstates EZ-Pass Perk For DRPA Union Members

CAMDEN, NJ (CBS) - Last year's move by the Delaware River Port Authority to rescind free EZ-Pass benefits for unionized workers has been overturned by an arbitrator -- although it's unclear when or even if those perks may be reinstated for about 500 affected DRPA employees.

The DRPA eliminated the negotiated perk several months ago at the behest of New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who called it wasteful (see previous story).  Three unions went to arbitration.

Attorney Samuel Spear represents Operating Engineers Local 542, the largest of the groups.

"The arbitrator said that no government or governor or state can simply get rid of a contract that's entered into, because a contract is a contract," he told KYW Newsradio on Wednesday.

And the perk was fairly negotiated, the arbitrator said.

The DRPA could take the award to court, or comply in one way or another. They're considering their options.

Requests for a comment from Gov. Christie went unanswered.

Reported by David Madden, KYW Newsradio 1060.