Lobby Day 2023 is canceled
The Local 49 Lobby Day at the Capitol planned for Thursday, Feb. 23, is canceled. Due to the weather, the Minnesota House of Representatives and Minnesota Senate are canceling floor…
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Hands-on heavy equipment event for high school students April 15
Join the Operating Engineers Pathway for a hands-on experience operating heavy equipment! Learn about the industry, take advantage of networking opportunities, tour the Central Lakes College campus and get a…
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Members ratify agreement with St. Paul
Tonight, Local 49 members voted to ratify an agreement with the city of St Paul. Our members will earn a 9% increase in base pay during the three-year agreement, with…
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Local 49 donates to strike fund for Hastings food service workers
In an act of solidarity, members of Local 49 showed up on the picket line today to present a $5,000 check for the strike fund of school food service workers…
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Tri-Council reaches tentative agreement with city of St. Paul
On Monday night, March 20, the Tri-Council and city of St. Paul reached a tentative agreement, and no strike is being called at this time. Members of the Tri- Council…
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Senate should support bonding bill, says Business Manager Jason George
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George is encouraging Minnesota senators to support the proposed bonding bill, which was passed with bipartisan support in the Minnesota House. He released the following…
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Jason George statement on SWLRT report
March 15, 2023 Contact: Jonathan Young IUOE Local 49 Communications Director C: 612-463-9117 Email: jyoung@local49.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jason George, business manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local…
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Local 49 statement on St. Paul strike authorization
MARCH 9, 2023 — Yesterday, our Tri-Council workers (Operating Engineers Local 49, Teamsters Local 120 and Laborers Local 363) voted to authorize a strike. The vote was unanimous, with well…
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City of St. Paul employees vote to authorize strike
On March 8, 2023, city of St. Paul public works, parks, sewer and water employees represented by the Tri-Council of IUOE Local 49, Teamsters 120 and Laborers 363 voted unanimously…
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Offices closed, meetings and Lobby Day canceled
The National Weather Service is forecasting blizzard conditions with heavy snowfall and advising no travel in much of Local 49’s territory in the next two days. As a result, all…
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Local 49 staff testify before Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement
Today Local 49 general counsel Chris Chantry and business agent Jonathan Turner testified in favor of a Minnesota bill that would raise the limit on what public sector units can…
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Register for a virtual health fund meeting
It’s your health fund. Stay informed. Health care costs are going up for everyone, and the Local 49 Health Fund has made several changes. Participants need to know more about…
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Local 49 business manager testifies in Congress on importance of mining critical minerals in the U.S.
Jason George, business manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 49, testified Feb. 9 in a Congressional hearing on the importance of mining critical minerals in the U.S….
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Local 49 business manager to testify in Congress on importance of domestic mining
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George will testify in a Congressional committee hearing Thursday about the importance of mining critical minerals in the U.S. The hearing will be livestreamed here….
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Online dues payment is here!
Members have been asking for online dues payment. It’s here (and much more) with the all-new MemberLink! MemberLink replaces the old Members Only portal. It’s a completely new system, so…
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Local 49 responds to Biden administration’s withdrawal of 225,000 acres from mineral leasing
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George released the following statement regarding today’s move by the Biden administration to withdraw more than 225,000 acres of land in northern Minnesota from mining…
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Members ratify 3-year contract with Metropolitan Airports Commission
Today, Local 49 front-line workers at the Metropolitan Airports Commission overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year agreement. The agreement provides well-deserved compensation for the hard-working members who enable the MSP airport…
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Priorities for Minnesota’s 2023 legislative session
Minnesota’s 2023 legislative session kicked off earlier this month in St. Paul, and Local 49 is actively advocating for members, both in committee hearings and through one-on-one meetings with legislators…
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Minnesota Highway Heavy proposal meetings
The Minnesota Highway Heavy Agreement expires May 1 this year. As Local 49 heads into negotiations, members are welcome to share proposals for the new contract. Twin Cities proposal meetings…
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WEATHER-RELATED CLOSURES
Due to weather conditions, the Mankato and Rochester area union meetings scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 22, are canceled. The Minneapolis private sector holiday party will still take place Wednesday, Dec….
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Granite Falls meeting canceled Dec. 13
Due to weather conditions, the Granite Falls area union meeting for Tuesday, Dec. 13, is canceled. The next meeting in Granite Falls will be Tuesday, Jan. 10. During that meeting…
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Open enrollment deadline extended
The open enrollment period for supplemental life, AD&D, critical illness and accident insurance through MCL/Voya has been extended. It will now end on Sunday, Dec. 4, at midnight. Local 49…
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Before apprenticeship, Akeethia Lloyd was ‘just trying to survive’
Before she became an operating engineer apprentice, Akeethia Lloyd was “just trying to survive.” Going through Local 49’s Apprenticeship Program literally changed her life. Akeethia is now a career navigator…
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Celebration of life scheduled for former Local 49 President Pendzimas
A celebration of life for former Local 49 President Jon R. “Jack” Pendzimas will take place noon to 3 p.m. this Sunday, Nov. 20, at Rush Creek Country Club and…
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RSVP for Local 49 holiday parties
Mark your calendar for this year’s holiday parties! All parties start at 6 p.m. Some hotels offer us discounted rates on guest rooms. Please contact the hotel directly and inquire…
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Operating Engineers Pathway students take part in ‘heavy equipment rodeo’
Ames Construction hosts hands-on event for Operating Engineers Pathway Oct. 15 ROSEMOUNT, MN — High school students from across the state tested their skill behind the controls of a bulldozer,…
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Photos: Retirees river cruise
It was a beautiful day for the Local 49 Retirees River Cruise Oct. 11 in Stillwater, Minnesota. See photos from the cruise here.
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St. Paul drops appeal in vaccine mandate case
The city of St. Paul has dropped its appeal of a court ruling that it committed an unfair labor practice by unilaterally implementing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for employees. The…
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Local 49 endorses Finstad for Congress
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 endorses Congressman Brad Finstad, a Republican from New Ulm, for reelection in Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District (see the formal press release here)….
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2022 Retirees River Cruise details for attendees
The 2022 Retirees River Cruise is full and cannot accept additional attendees. Below are details for those who submitted RSVPs. What: Local 49 Retirees River Cruise When: Tuesday, Oct. 11,…
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Local 49 endorses Emmer for reelection
Local 49 has endorsed Congressman Tom Emmer for reelection in Minnesota’s 6th Congressional District. “Congressman Emmer has been an advocate for family-supporting, union jobs, including his unwavering support of Davis-Bacon…
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IUOE Local 49 Endorses Schultz for attorney general
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, Minnesota’s largest construction union, endorses Jim Schultz for Minnesota attorney general. (See the formal press release here.) Local 49 Business Manager Jason…
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2022 Metro Area Picnic a success
Approximately 900 people attended Local 49’s 2022 Metro Area Picnic Sunday, Sept. 25, at Hope Glen Farm in Cottage Grove. It was a beautiful day for food and fun with…
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Get authorized 49er gear on new website
A new website, 49ergear.com, makes it easy to buy authorized Local 49 clothing. Find high-quality, union-made clothes that fit your personality. Whether you’re looking for T-shirts and polos for the…
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MINNESOTA ALLOCATION VOTES NOW ONLINE
Members who work under the Minnesota Builders or Highway Heavy agreements can vote through 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, on how to allocate wage and benefit increases that will take…
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IUOE Local 49 Endorses Walz for Reelection
Media contact: John Pollard IUOE Local 49 Legislative Director C: 651-329-2373 Email: jpollard@local49.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE IUOE Local 49 Endorses Walz for Reelection MINNEAPOLIS — The International Union of Operating…
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Register for a Members Only account
If you’re a member in good standing of Local 49, registering for an account is easy. You will need your registration number (find it on your union membership card —…
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Local 49 Retirees River Cruise is Oct. 11, 2022
YOU’RE INVITED (UPDATE – CRUISE IS FULL) Local 49 invites retired members and an adult guest to a river cruise on the beautiful St. Croix River in Stillwater, Minnesota, Tuesday,…
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High schoolers explore heavy equipment operation: Enrolling now
Press Contact: Jonathan Young IUOE Local 49 Communications Director C: 612-463-9117 Email: jyoung@local49.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE First-of-its-kind program registering students for fall semester after 2 years of success The call…
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Local 49 endorses Congressman Pete Stauber
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 today announced its endorsement of Congressman Pete Stauber for reelection in the 8th Congressional District. Stauber, a Republican from Duluth, accepted the…
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Local 49 business manager welcomes news of mining joint venture
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George welcomed today’s announcement that two premier mining companies will work together in northern Minnesota. PolyMet Mining Corp. and Teck American Inc. are forming a…
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Local 49 endorses Minnesota House and Senate candidates
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, Minnesota’s largest construction union, has endorsed 73 candidates in the upcoming elections for the state House and Senate. Local 49 takes a…
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Thank you, sponsors of the Local 49 Golf Classic to Benefit Homes For Our Troops
Local 49 thanks the sponsors of the first-ever Local 49 Golf Classic to Benefit Homes For Our Troops! We raised more than $250,000, and we couldn’t have done it without…
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You can help provide homes for our troops
When duty called, our veterans answered. Now it’s our turn. Donate to Homes For Our Troops More than 1,000 severely injured veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan need…
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Join us at the 2022 Metro Area Picnic Sept. 25
2022 Metro Area Picnic 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25. Local 49 members, their spouses and dependent children, as well as retirees and their spouses, are invited. The…
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New location for Northern Area Picnic Aug. 7
Local 49’s Northern Area Picnic is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, in a new location. This year’s picnic will be at Olcott Park, 901…
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Frontline Worker Pay — what to know
Applications for Frontline Worker Pay (“hero pay”) from the state of Minnesota are now open, and some Local 49 members may qualify. The deadline to apply is July 22. Local…
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2 members honored with Women Building Success awards
Two Local 49 members were honored at the 2022 Women Building Success Awards Ceremony in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, Wednesday, June 1. Brittney Bray received an honorable mention in the…
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Judge rules St. Paul vaccine mandate an unfair labor practice
A Ramsey County judge ruled yesterday that the city of St. Paul engaged in an unfair labor practice by unilaterally implementing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for employees without negotiating with…
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NOW HIRING: Instructors for Training Center
The Local 49 Training Center is hiring for several instructor positions: Safety instructor: View the job description here. Email resume and cover letter to resume@local49training.org. Heavy equipment simulator instructor: View…
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Local 49 business manager condemns failure of House DFL to reach deal on infrastructure
Jason George, business manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, released the following statement Wednesday, May 25, in response to the Minnesota Legislature’s failure to complete its…
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Local 49 announces 2022 scholarship winners
Local 49 received 47 completed scholarship applications this year from a diverse and competitive group of individuals. Ten grants were awarded for $2,500 each, up from $1,000 in previous years….
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Smallman wins Top Women in Construction Award
Connie Smallman, a Local 49 member and operating engineer with Kraus-Anderson, won the Outstanding Craftswoman category in Finance & Commerce’s 2022 Top Women in Construction Awards last week. Read more…
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Longtime member’s legacy lives on through donation to Training Center
A longtime member and business agent’s commitment to Local 49 is having a ripple effect beyond his lifetime. When Jack Guy, of Gilbert, Minnesota, died just before his 90th birthday…
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Local 49 member named finalist for Top Women in Construction Awards
UPDATE: Connie Smallman was named the winner in the Outstanding Craftswoman category. As a young girl, Connie Smallman learned to use power tools and, with her dad’s help, built her…
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Congressman Stauber supports stronger prevailing wage regulations
Local 49 thanks Minnesota Congressman Pete Stauber for backing much-needed updates to the Davis-Bacon Act regulations that will directly benefit operating engineers. Approved in 1931, the Davis-Bacon Act requires contractors…
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Nominations due May 18 for 2022 Women Building Success Awards
Local 49 is proud to represent some of the most talented, skilled and hard-working women in our industry. You can help them get the recognition they deserve by nominating someone…
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Students get hands-on experience with heavy equipment at Ziegler Cat in Shakopee
More than 40 high school students from across the state of Minnesota took the controls of a tractor loader backhoe at Ziegler Cat in Shakopee Saturday, April 30, and had…
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Members accept MN Builders Agreement
The Minnesota Builders Agreement was overwhelmingly accepted by Local 49 members in a vote Saturday, April 30. The updated wage rates will be posted here on Monday morning, May 2.
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Fallen 49ers remembered on Workers Memorial Day at Minnesota Capitol
Four members of Local 49 who died on the job last year were honored during a Workers Memorial Day ceremony outside the Minnesota State Capitol today: Gerald Peterson died Jan….
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MN Senate passes bill to dedicate auto parts sales tax to roads and bridges
With members of Local 49 advocating at the Capitol, the Minnesota Senate passed a bill Thursday, April 28, to dedicate 100% of the sales tax paid on auto parts to…
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Vote on MN Builders Agreement April 30
Local 49 and the AGC have reached a tentative agreement for the new Minnesota Builders Contract effective May 1, 2022. A ratification vote is scheduled for Saturday, April 30. Members…
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Local 49 offices closed Friday, April 15
Due to an obligation to our OPEIU Local 12 office personnel, the IUOE Local 49 offices will be closed Friday, April 15, in observance of Good Friday. Business agents will…
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BILL DEDICATING AUTO PARTS SALES TAX TO ROADS AND BRIDGES PASSES COMMITTEE WITH BIPARTISAN SUPPORT
A bill dedicating 100% of the sales tax paid on auto parts to road and bridge projects is headed to the Senate floor with the support of IUOE Local 49….
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Local 49 responds to gas tax holiday proposal.
Local 49 Responds to Gas Tax Holiday Proposal There is no question that gas prices are out of control and there is a need to do something to address…
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Women in Construction Week
Governor Walz has declared March 6-12th Women in Construction Week in Minnesota. The Local 49 Women’s Committee put together a video celebrating their group and their volunteer efforts. We have…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George, advocates for increased funding to road and bridge programs.
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George, along with our partners in the industry, spent yesterday advocating for increased funding to road and bridge programs. The bill considered would dedicate 100%…
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Proposal Meeting – Minnesota Builders Master Agreement
Local 49 Members, The Minnesota Builders Master Agreement expires on April 30, 2022. Local 49 will be hosting proposal meetings in Minnesota to hear from members about what issues are important…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Issues Statement regarding the Court of Appeals ruling on Polymet permit
Jason George, Business Manager for the International Union for Operating Engineers Local 49, issued the following statement regarding the Court of Appeals ruling on Polymet permit: “We applaud the judge’s…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Speaks on Governor’s 2022 Local Jobs and Projects Plan
Jason George, Business Manager for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, released the following statement. “We are excited to see Governor Walz put forward a bonding proposal that…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Speaks at House Committee on Natural Resources
Congressman Pete Stauber invited Local 49 Business Manager Jason George to speak in front of the Committee on Natural Resources Republicans and the Western Caucus today about the importance of…
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Mask Requirement for Minneapolis Hall
Following the changes to the city of Minneapolis’s mask requirement last week, Local 49 is required to adjust the mask requirement policy as follows: Masks will be required to be…
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Tonight’s West Fargo Union Meeting is Cancelled
Due to inclement weather, tonight’s West Fargo union meeting will be cancelled. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, February 3.
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Local 49 members working for the city of Minneapolis approved final contract offer
Local 49 members have voted to accept the latest contract offer from the city of Minneapolis, and our members will not be going on strike. This was a challenging negotiation,…
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Local 49 Issues Update on City of Minneapolis Negotiations
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 filed an intent to strike notice with the city of Minneapolis two weeks ago after our membership voted down the city’s latest…
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Judge Grants Tri-Council’s Temporary Restraining Order Against the City of St. Paul
Today, the Ramsey County District Court Judge granted the Tri-Council’s (IUOE Local 49, Teamsters Local 120, and Laborers Local 363) request for a temporary restraining order. This ruling has now…
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Local 49 members working at the Minneapolis Airport overwhelmingly vote to authorize a strike
Today, a vote was held by Local 49 members that work for the Metropolitan Airport Commission on whether or not to authorize the union to take their bargaining unit out…
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Local 49 members working for the city of Minneapolis vote down last contract offer and file to strike
Last night, members of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 that are employed by the city of Minneapolis voted down the city’s final contract offer. Local 49…
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Local 49 Files Lawsuit Against the City of St. Paul for Vaccine Mandate
The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 filed a lawsuit yesterday over the requirement that city employees must receive the COVID-19 vaccine by the end of the year…
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Local 49 responds to Governor Walz’s Budget Surplus Announcement
Today, Governor Tim Walz announced the largest budget surplus in the state’s history of $7.7 billion. This not only marks a significant milestone in our state but provides a once-in-a-generation…
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December Grand Forks Union Meeting is Cancelled
The Grand Forks union meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 7 has been cancelled. The next Grand Forks meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 4 at 7:00 p.m.
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Act Now to Defend Minnesota’s Mining Laws
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been ordered by the Court to review the state’s nonferrous mining rule and is accepting public comment on the matter through December…
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Local 49 Announces New Legislative Director
Today, the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 announced that John Pollard will serve as the union’s new Legislative Director. Pollard will be responsible for the union’s day-to-day…
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Local 49 Apprentice Spotlight: Emiliano Corona
Emiliano Corona has always loved working outdoors from a young age, particularly with his father at his yard and lawn company. “Since I was in middle school, I always…
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Apprenticeship Spotlight: Sydnie Nelson
Sydnie Nelson has grown up around the construction industry her entire life and is now making her dream career a reality after she joined the Local 49 Apprenticeship program. …
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IUOE Statement on Federal Infrastructure Package
“I want to thank General President Callahan and the IUOE legislative team in Washington for their efforts to make this historic investment in Operating Engineers jobs a reality. I also…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Provides Update on Status of Twin Cities Public Sector Negotiations
I want to update the membership on the ongoing contract negotiations with St. Paul, Minneapolis, the MET Council, and the Metropolitan Airports Commission. Last week, the Local 49 members…
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Local 49 Partners with Native American-Owned Organization to Provide Training and Potential Career Opportunities
Pictured are Five Skies participants completing oiler training at the Local 49 Training Center Local 49 recently partnered with Five Skies Training and Consulting, a Native American-owned organization specializing in…
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Local 49 Responds to Proposed Mineral Withdrawal Plan for Northern Minnesota
“Today’s announcement by the Biden Administration to initiate yet another mineral withdrawal study is a disheartening blow to job creation on the Iron Range and casts doubt on the seriousness…
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Operating Engineers Career Pathway Program Hands-On Event
On Saturday, October 9, over 60 students enrolled in the Operating Engineers Career Pathway program received hands-on experience operating equipment at the Local 49 Training Center as part of the…
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Local 49 Business Manager statement on the status of Twin Cities public sector contract negotiations
I wanted to update the membership on an urgent matter. Contract negotiations with several large Twin Cities public employers are not going well. Our more than 100 members that work…
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Local 49 Supports Committee to Educate Voters on Negative Impacts of Rent Control
A broad coalition of civic and housing leaders has launched efforts in St. Paul and Minneapolis to educate voters and defeat rent control ballot initiatives which, if passed, would result…
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The Local 49 Training Center is Hiring!
The Local 49 Training Center is hiring for the following positions: Administrative Assistant Grading & Excavating/GPS Instructor Click above to view each position description and qualifications. To apply for either…
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Statement from IUOE Local 49 Business Manager Jason George regarding recent letter by Congresswomen Omar and McCollum and dozens of local state DFL elected politicians disparaging Local 49 members
Last night, I read the letter sent to President Biden penned by Minneapolis and St. Paul Congresswomen Omar and McCollum, several others of their Congressional colleagues from around the nation,…
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Fall Benefit Meetings
The Operating Engineers Local 49 Health and Welfare Fund will host virtual benefit meetings throughout this fall for all hourly active participants to discuss the upcoming dollar bank change, the…
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Election Results
The IUOE Local 49 Officer and Executive Board election concluded on August 16, 2021. On September 1, 2021, your IUOE Local 49 Officers and Executive Board leadership are as follows:…
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Online Heavy Equipment Classes Open for Enrollment for all MN High School Students Until August 30
Enrollment is currently open until August 30 for the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 high school pathway program. This program is in partnership with Minnesota Virtual Academy…
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Fact Sheets Released Highlighting the Impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Nationwide
The US Senate will be voting very soon on final passage of the largest infrastructure investment in U.S. history. Billions of dollars of new investment are at stake for our…
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Local 49 Member Testifies in Front of Frontline Worker Pay Working Group
Local 49 member TJ Hodges testified in front of the Frontline Worker Pay Working Group on Wednesday to advocate for Local 49 members to be included in the recently authorized…
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Contact your Senator to support bi-partisan infrastructure jobs legislation
“Members, now is the time to get engaged to support your jobs, and the rebuilding of America. IUOE headquarters has created a website where you can get information about the…
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Local 49 Metro Area Picnic RSVP
Local 49 Metro area Picnic Sunday, September 19, 2021 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. Food will be served from 12:00 noon – 2:00 p.m. Hope…
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Data Security Issue
IUOE Local 49 is providing this statement to address serious concerns raised by many of our members about a possible data breach. Many members of Local 49 have complained to…
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MN Legislative Session Ends – Results for Local 49
The MN Legislative Session is ending today. We were very active this session, as we always are, focused on the same core things we always focus on: growing JOBS, and…
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Minnesota Workers Join Stauber in Condemning House Democrats’ Shortsighted Attacks on Mining
Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) expressed his strong opposition to the Fiscal Year 2022 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Spending bill which is being led by House Democrats and contains a…
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Local 49 Northern Area Picnic
Local 49 will be hosting the Northern area picnic on Sunday, August 1 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park located at 4392 Miller Trunk Road Eveleth, MN 55734 …
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Local 49 statement on the bid award of the Fargo Flood Diversion project
We learned late last week that the Fargo Flood Diversion project was awarded to a Spanish firm Acciona and their partners. A local union contractor Ames Construction, along with their…
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St. Cloud July Union Meeting is Cancelled
Due to the Fourth of July holiday, the membership decided to cancel the St. Cloud union meeting that was scheduled for July 1. The St. Cloud union meetings will resume…
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Minnesota Court of Appeals Affirms Line 3 replacement project permits
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George stated: “Today is a good day for common sense. Line 3 replacement project is the most studied pipeline in history, and with today’s…
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Local 49 Business Manager Interview with Linder Farm Radio Network
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George spoke on Linder Farm Radio Network this morning and shared his thoughts on the Enbridge Line 3 protest activity that has occurred this week….
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Local 49 Hosts Hands-On Heavy Equipment Training Event for High School Students Across the State
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Fall enrollment is now open for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49‘s Operating Engineers Career Pathway program, who recently hosted high school students from across…
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Message from Business Manager Jason George on the Marathon Refinery issue
We have seen Marathon Refinery in St. Paul Park kick out local contractors with skilled union tradesmen and women and replace them with out of state contractors in the last…
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2021 Local 49 Scholarship Recipients
Recipients of a Scholarship award from Local 49 were announced at the General Membership Meeting on May 19, 2021. Ten grants of $1,000.00 each were awarded this year and Local…
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Face Covering Guidelines Update
Following the changes to Minnesota’s statewide mask requirement late last week Local 49 officers have met and agreed to adjust the mask requirements as follows: Masks will continue to be required…
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Union Leaders, Health & Safety Personnel and Local Leaders Urge Bipartisan Action to Pass Refinery Safety Bill
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George, alongside workers and other community leaders, spoke to the media today urging the legislature to pass apprenticeship requirements for contractors working in Minnesota’s oil…
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Additional Operating Engineers Local 49 Health Fund Virtual Benefit Meetings
The Operating Engineers Local 49 Health and Welfare Fund will host virtual benefit meetings throughout the summer for all hourly active participants to discuss the upcoming dollar bank change, the…
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Operating Engineers Local 49 Health Fund COVID-19 Vaccine On-Site Event
The Operating Engineers Local 49 Health and Welfare Fund and TEAM, your Medical Advocacy Program, have partnered with Cub Pharmacy to host a COVID-19 on-site event in Minneapolis and Rochester…
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Operating Engineers, Carpenters, and Laborers Unions Support the Clean Energy for America Act
I want to thank IUOE General President Callahan, along with the LiUNA and Carpenters for taking a strong stand on the issue of labor protections being required for support of…
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International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 statement on treatment of the Minnesota National Guard by other labor leaders this week
I learned on twitter last night of an incident that occurred earlier this week involving other union leaders and the Minnesota National Guard at the St. Paul Labor Center. What…
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Local 49 Training Center is Hiring for a General Crane and All Terrain Crane Instructors
The Local 49 Training Center is hiring for a General Crane Instructor and an All Terrain Crane Instructor. Click below to view the job description and requirements for each position….
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Summary of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP Act)
Summary of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP Act) and how it could effect Local 49 members US Congress summary extend unemployment benefits and related services. make up to…
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Public Sector & Private Shops Steward Training
Public Sector & Private Shops Steward Training will be hosted on April 27, 2021 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. This training is designed for all current stewards and members interested…
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Elizabeth Ennenga – Women in Construction Week
Local 49 member Elizabeth Ennenga graduated from Georgetown University with a major in comparative politics and now owns her own company: Quad E Companies. Soon after graduation, Elizabeth moved…
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NaFeeSha King – Member Story
“This is the greatest job in the world, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” NaFeeSha King has worn many hats throughout her career in various industries but says that…
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Local 49 urges legislators to invest in infrastructure as budget surplus is expected
“Today, state officials announced that Minnesota has a $1.6 billion surplus of tax money for the 2022-23 budget year. The state owes a debt of gratitude to the men and…
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Minnesota Supreme Court rules in favor of PolyMet air permit
St. Paul, Minn., February 24, 2021 – The Minnesota Supreme Court today unanimously ruled in favor of the Clean Air Act permit issued to PolyMet by the Minnesota Pollution Control…
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Joe Simmonds – Local 49 Member Story
Joe Simmonds, a 19-year member of Local 49, has been in the construction industry since moving to Minnesota from the U.S. Virgin Islands to owning his own construction business. “When…
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The Local 49 Training Center is Hiring for a Crane Instructor
The Local 49 Training Center is now hiring for a crane instructor. This posting will remain open until Monday, March 8. Click here to view the job description and requirements. …
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U.S. District Court Ends Federal Challenge to PolyMet’s Water Quality Permit
St. Paul, Minn., February 16, 2021 – A federal judge dismissed a challenge to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s oversight of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System water quality permit…
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National Study Says So-called “Right to Work” (RTW) States Have Worse Economic, Health, Social, and Civic Outcomes
In an eight-year period of national economic expansion that followed the Great Recession of 2008, the 27 U.S. states that had enacted so-called “right-to-work” laws saw slower economic growth, lower…
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Virtual Pipeline Informational Union Meeting
Local 49 will be hosting a virtual pipeline informational union meeting on Tuesday, February 23 at 7:00 p.m. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and the limited indoor space that is available,…
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Local 49 Member Connie Smallman selected to be on task force for women’s economic equality
Local 49 member Connie Smallman has been selected to become a member of the Advisory Task Force on Expanding the Economic Security of Women. Last week Minnesota Attorney General Keith…
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February Union Meetings
Local 49 Members, We have come up with a plan for union meetings in February that we believe keeps us in compliance with the current law on gatherings. In February,…
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Local 49 Stands with Teamsters Local 120 – Boycott Marathon Gas Stations
More than 200 of our brothers and sisters from Teamsters Local 120 are walking a picket line right now at Marathon Refinery in St. Paul Park. We stand with them….
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Membership Victory: Local 49 Secures A Settlement in Minnesota’s First-Ever Public-Sector Unfair Labor Practice Charge
When the COVID-19 pandemic reached our state and began to significantly affect our members in March of 2020, I personally notified all Local 49 employers that this Local would commit…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Statement on revocation of Keystone XL permits
“The news yesterday that President Biden has revoked the permit for Keystone XL is a blow to our membership. There are dozens of members that were already working on pump…
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RSVP for Operating Engineers Local 49 Health Fund Benefit and Health Meetings!
Active/Pre-Medicare Retiree Benefit Meetings The Operating Engineers Local 49 Health and Welfare Fund will be hosting virtual benefit meetings for all Active/Pre-Medicare Retiree participants! What will be presented at the…
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Brock Keaton Jr. – First Year Local 49 Apprentice
After graduating with a four-year degree, Brock Keaton Jr. is now in his first year as a Local 49 apprentice and says that “this has been the best career choice.”…
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MN Public Utilities Commission approves several wind projects in Local 49’s jurisdiction to be built by Xcel Energy
On May 7th, 2020, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission invited power providers to submit proposals that would aid in Minnesota’s economic recovery. Xcel Energy responded with a 7 wind repower…
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Local 49 letter of support for Teamsters Local 120 fight to get a fair contract at Marathon Refinery in St. Paul Park.
Click here to read Local 49’s letter of support for Teamsters Local 120 fight to get a fair contract at Marathon Refinery in St. Paul Park.
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January Union Meetings Cancelled
As a reminder, all union meetings are cancelled for the month of January. Local 49 Business Manager Jason George will provide a video update this month to update members on…
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Local 49 Duluth Office Hours of Operation Change
Beginning on Monday, December 28, 2020, the Local 49 Duluth Office will now only be open on Monday’s and Thursday’s from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. However, Duluth members are encouraged to…
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Three Local 49 Signatory Contractors were Award Recipients During the AGC 2020 Award Recognition Week
Congratulations to Atlas Foundation, Park Construction, and Rachel Contracting who each won the Jeff Jensen Memorial Construction Safety Excellence Award during the 2020 AGC Award Recognition Week. Contractors who apply…
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Enbridge Line 3 Project Receives Final Permit to Begin Construction
Today, the Enbridge Line 3 Replacement project received its final permit and the project will now move toward finally beginning construction. Local 49 Business Manager Jason George issued the following…
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Membership Assistance
IUOE Local 49 is dedicated to helping our members and your families, especially during times of need. Click here to view resources that members have available to them to help…
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Line 3 Receives State Agency Permits
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George released the following statement in response to the Enbridge Line 3 Replacement Project receiving state agency permits. Today, science, reason and logic won. The…
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Statement to Members regarding cancellation of all union meetings
Effective immediately, and under authority granted to all Business Managers in the nation from General President Callahan, all Local 49 union meetings are suspended for November and December. We will…
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General President Callahan Issues Statement Following the Election Results
Every member should take a minute and read this statement from our General President about the recent elections and the aftermath. “I stand 100 percent behind General President James Callahan…
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Additional Meeting Months for Granite Falls
The Granite Falls union meeting months will now be December – April on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Rock Dining & Event Center, 1940 11th Ave. Granite Falls, MN 56241 at…
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Membership Benefits
Local 49 is proud to announce several new membership benefits that are available to all active, working, dues paying Local 49 members, which includes a new death benefit, life insurance…
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Local 49 Participates in Infrastructure Bonding Bill Signing with Governor Tim Walz
Today Local 49, along with our fellow building trades unions, gathered at the Iron Workers Local 512 Training Center to participate in a bill signing with Governor Tim Walz for…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Message to Members on Passage of Bonding Bill
“I am very pleased to announce that both the Minnesota House and Senate have now passed an infrastructure bonding bill that will invest close to $2 billion in projects across…
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Local 49 Final Endorsement List
Local 49 Final Endorsement List 2020 Click here to view the Local 49 endorsement flyer U.S. Senate Tina Smith (DFL) U.S. Congress MN 6th District – Tom Emmer (Republican) MN…
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Business Manager Jason George issued the following statement regarding urgency of passing bonding bill this week during special session
“For months now construction workers, small and large businesses, material suppliers, architects, engineers, and local communities totaling hundreds of thousands of Minnesotan’s have watched our political leaders fail to pass…
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Local 49 releases bi-partisan list of endorsements for MN state legislature
Local 49 Business Manager, Jason George, released the following statement regarding Local 49’s bi-partisan list of endorsements: We believe that our members are the backbone of this country. We believe…
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Third Annual Women Building Success National Apprenticeship Week Photo Contest:
Women Building Success is hosting their Third Annual Women Building Success National Apprenticeship Week Photo Contest event on Thursday, November 12th from 6:00-7:30 p.m. As this is a virtual event this year,…
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DLI Apprentice of the Day
As part of National Apprenticeship Week (Nov. 9 – 15, 2020), the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) will recognize outstanding apprentices and are looking for nominations. Download the Apprentice…
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Tradeswomen Heroes Award
Beginning this October, NABTU’s Tradeswomen’s Committee and Apprenticeship & Training Committee are teaming up to launch the Tradeswomen Heroes to honor outstanding building trades sisters. Tradeswomen Heroes will recognize four…
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Former Local 49 Officer, Kyle Jones, Has Passed Away
Business Manager Jason George shared the following thoughts on the unexpected passing of retired Local 49 Officer Kyle Jones: We here at Local 49 were devastated to learn of the…
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Local 49 raises concerns about Northern Natural Gas hiring Texas labor
Local 49 submitted a letter to the regulatory agency in charge of permitting a proposed Northern Natural Gas project in Minnesota. Local 49 Business Manager Jason George issued the following…
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New Enhanced Membership Benefits
For a few months now, we have been talking about providing you an enhanced death benefit as part of a broader package of member benefits. We recently conducted a By-laws…
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Minnesota and the Dakotas Poised for Post-COVID-19 Clean Energy Boom
According to new research from the Midwest Economic Policy Institute (MEPI) and the Illinois Economic Policy Institute (ILEPI), three of the nation’s leading producers of renewable energy are poised to lead…
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Local 49 Partners with Minnesota Virtual Academy to Offer Online Heavy Equipment Courses for High School Students
The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 and Minnesota Virtual Academy (MNVA) have partnered together to offer a unique opportunity for high school students to complete online elective…
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Local 49 will have Union Meetings in September
The COVID-19 situation has prevented us from having Union meetings for the last few months. We have been cautious in our approach to do our part to prevent the spread…
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IUOE Local 49 Reaction to Governor Walz Appealing his own agencies permits of Line 3 Replacement
Local 49 Business Manager Jason George Released the Following Comments: We are frustrated, angry, and bitterly disappointed today. We have spoken to Governor Walz about the Line 3 permitting process…
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Local 49 and Supporters of Line 3 Deliver Thousands of Signatures of Support to Governor’s Office
Local 49 joined other supporters of the Line 3 Replacement Project today at a media event held at the Minnesota State Capitol to officially deliver the signatures to Governor Walz…
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Project Labor Agreement Reached for Keystone XL Project
TC Energy Corporation (TSX, NYSE: TRP) (TC Energy) announced today that Keystone XL has reached a project labor agreement (PLA) with four leading U.S. labor unions that will inject hundreds…
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Local 49 Endorses Congressman Tom Emmer for Minnesota’s 6th District
In a press conference today held at Local 49’s St. Cloud office, Local 49 announced our endorsement of Congressman Tom Emmer for Minnesota’s 6th District. Congressman Emmer has consistently and…
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Jason George, Leader of Minnesota’s Largest Construction Union, Responds to the Failure of Another Special Session to Address the Looming Economic Crisis
Another special session another failure. Our members have contacted their legislators. I have spent countless hours talking to leaders from both sides of the aisle. They all knew the stakes….
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July Union Meetings Cancelled
All July union meetings have been cancelled. In lieu of having union meetings this month, I will be providing a video update in the Members Only section. As part of…
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Local 49 Issues Letter to all Legislators in Response to the Special Session
Today, Local 49 issued a letter to all legislators, including leaders, and the Governor in response to the progress of the Special Session. Click here to read the letter.
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Local 49 Donates $10,000 to Organizations Rebuilding Damaged Twin Cities’ Communities
The damage that took place last week left the Twin Cities in a state of devastation and destruction. Our neighbors are hurting, they have a long road to recovery, and…
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IUOE Local 49 Business Manager Jason George releases statement regarding Governor Walz’s decision to hold a contested case hearing on a water quality permit for the Line 3 Replacement Project.
I strongly disagree with the decision made by Governor Walz to hold a contested case hearing on a simple water quality permit for the Line 3 replacement project. This is a…
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Union Activities Update, Twin Cities Riots, Pipeline Steward Training
Union Activities Update There are three areas in terms of Union activities that I wanted to update members on. These updates are all COVID-19 related. Monthly Union Meetings: Unfortunately, we are…
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Local 49 Metro Area Summer Picnic is Cancelled
It is with great sadness that Local 49 has made the difficult decision to cancel the Metro Area Summer Picnic scheduled for June 28th at Hope Glen Farm. We apologize…
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Local 49 Responds to Bonding Bill Failure
Despite having four months to find a deal on a bonding bill, Minnesota’s political leaders ended session last night and failed to invest in Minnesota’s infrastructure and the people that build…
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COVID-19 Survivor and Local 49 Member Dick Kryzer Shares His Story
On March 17, Dick Kryzer, a 12-year Local 49 member and plant operator for MET Council, experienced the first symptoms of what would later be confirmed as COVID-19. Kryzer is…
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2020 Local 49 Scholarship Recipients
Recipients of a Scholarship award from Local 49 will be announced at the General Membership Meeting on June 17, 2020. Ten grants of $1,000.00 each were awarded this year and…
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Local 49 Training Center is Hiring – Health & Safety Technical Education Instructor
The Local 49 Training is currently hiring for a Health and Safety Technical Education Instructor. This position will remain open until filled. Click here to view the job description, qualifications and…
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Local 49 Member Joe Abeyta Endorsed for State Representative in District 5B
This week, Joe Abeyta, heavy equipment operator with IUOE Local 49, a city councilman, veteran, husband, and father of three from the City of LaPrairie, won the endorsement of the Minnesota Democratic…
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Local 49 Business Manager Jason George responds to Great River Energy’s announcement to retire Coal Creek Station in 2022
Today, Great River Energy (GRE), a not-for-profit wholesale electric power cooperative providing power in Minnesota and Wisconsin, announced plans to retire its 1,151-megawatt (MW) coal generating power plant, Coal Creek Station,…
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Local 49 supports Congressman Stauber’s efforts to end our reliance on foreign supply chains for critical minerals
Recently, Congressman Stauber issued a press release after he introduced legislation that will incentivize American manufacturers to purchase domestically sourced critical minerals. In doing so, the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Chain…
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Statement from IUOE Local 49 Business Manager Jason George regarding Bonding Bill in Minnesota
Over the weekend, Minnesota House Republican Minority Leader Kurt Daudt published a statement that tied the fate of a critical infrastructure bonding bill to a growing constitutional dispute between some…
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Local 49 Union Meetings in May Cancelled
I have made the difficult decision to cancel all regular monthly Local 49 Union meetings for the month of May. This includes the Minneapolis General Membership meeting. IUOE General President…
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Local 49 Training Center Open for Field Training on May 6
The Local 49 Training Center will open for field training starting Wednesday, May 6th, 2020. Because we must maintain social distancing guidelines and adhere to proper safety protocol, training availability…
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Impact of COVID-19 on Job Outlook, Union Update, Wage Rates
Impact of COVID-19 on Jobs in Our Jurisdiction The construction economy in our region is doing ok as we all deal with the economic hit that the COVID-19 crisis has…
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Unemployment Benefits Update
Minnesota Members The following letter is for members and their families that are currently eligible for Unemployment benefits. If you have additional question’s please see the links below for additional resources. For the fastest response from the…
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Union Meetings in April Canceled – MN HH Contract Negotiations Update
Local 49 members, The shelter in place order for Minnesota extends through the first half of April currently, and there is the possibility that it will go longer. As of…
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Federal Legislation Summary and Local 49 Training Center News
Local 49 Members, There are two important updates to share today. 1. Congress has passed a couple pieces of important legislation to help Americans deal with the repercussions of the…
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Local 49 Update to Members on MN Governor’s Executive Order
Members, Today Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued a stay at home executive order. This order goes into effect Friday, March 27, at 11:59 pm and goes through Friday, April 10,…
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Health Fund Update, Unemployment Guidelines, Training Center Update, and More
Updated: Friday, March 20, 2020 at 7:45 p.m. Please view the following member communications in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic. Please check back frequently as we will continue to…
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Pipeline Business Agent Position
Local 49 is currently looking for a new Pipeline Business Agent. The office in which this person will be located has yet to be determined, so we encourage applicants from…
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Minnesota Apprenticeship Enrollment Up 27% Since 2014
A study led jointly by Labor-Management Construction Programs found that, apprenticeship has become one of Minnesota’s most effective workforce development institutions. The number of Minnesotans enrolled in registered apprenticeship programs…
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One Step Closer to Saving Apprenticeship Programs!
Thank you to all our members, your families, and friends who submitted comments to the Department of Labor in response to the proposed changes that would negatively affect every member…
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Local 49 Northern Area Picnic
The Local 49 Northern Area Picnic will be at the Veterans Memorial Park – Ely Lake, Eveleth MN located at 4392 Miller Trunk Road Eveleth, MN 55734 on Sunday August, 4, 2019 from…
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Local 49 Members Working Together for 20 Years
Dan Sapp and Victor (Vic) Yamry have worked together at Advanced Equipment as Crane Technicians for 20 years, and on top of that, Sapp works with his son Adam as…
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Local 49 Members Invited to First IUOE Sisters Leadership Conference
Local 49 members and co-founders of the Local 49 Women’s Group, Wendy Stuhr and Connie Smallman, were invited by the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) for the first Sisters…
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Heavy Equipment Operator by Day; Action Sports Star by Night
From the outside, Tyler Pynnonen looks like your everyday Local 49 member – except being a professional action sports athlete and the first person in the world to front flip…
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Volunteer and Donate to Help Local Communities
Volunteer Event Join Local 49 on Friday, June 21st for the Land of 1,000 Lakes Day of Action volunteer event hosted by United Way, Itasca County Habitat for Humanity and the Itasca…
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Local 49 Summer Picnic
The annual Local 49 Summer picnic will be hosted at Hope Glen Farm, 10276 E Point Douglas Rd S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016, on Sunday, June 23, 2019 from 11:30 a.m….
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Trades Women Build Nations Conference Coming to Minneapolis
The 9thannual Trades Women Build Nations Conference will be hosted in Minneapolis on Oct. 4-6, 2019, and the members of the Local 49 Women’s Group are gearing up for the…
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Building Allianz Field
Local 49 members have made enormous contributions in building every major stadium in Minnesota, and the new Allianz Field is no exception. More than 50 Local 49 members and several…
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Judge Lifts Injunction; Work Can Continue on Flood Diversion Project
U.S. District Court Judge John A. Tunheim modified the injunction to allow all requested construction to proceed on the FM Area Diversion Project. The ruling was made after motions requesting…
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Order Your Local 49 Gear Online
Order your USA/Union made Local 49 gear online! Free shipping on all orders! There are a variety of sizes and styles for men and women, and each item can be customized…
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Thank You to Public and Private Sector Snow Plow Operators
Thank you to the private and public sector snow plow operators for all your efforts to clear our roads and parking lots. You work long hours doing dangerous work all…
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Nominate Women Members of Local 49 for Women Building Success Awards
Do you know an outstanding woman member of Local 49? Nominate them for a Women Building Success Award! There are three nomination categories: Apprentice of the Year, Journeyworker of the…
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Pulling Our Weight: Building the Mankato Power Plant
Members of Local 49 are once again playing an instrumental role in the construction of one of the largest projects in southwestern Minnesota. The $300 million Southern Power project located…
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