Contract negotiation provide labor and management an opportunity to discuss matters both contractual and non-contractual, in order to make positive changes for the employees of LA Metro. An issue that had been raised by union members, and then taken by the General Committee to the negotiating table, was the MTA uniform policy limiting the time frame that shorts could be worn as part of the uniform.

It is not uncommon for winter days in Southern California to reach above 90 degrees. The requirement for pants to be worn during these months left many operators with very hot and uncomfortable working conditions. Although it is not a contractual matter, the General Committee felt that the policy needed to be changed and argued for it at the negotiating table. The MTA agreed and beginning April 1, operators will have the option to wear cargo shorts year round.