TWU Local 100 vowed from the beginning of their dispute with the MTA not to cede members’ right to vote on a contract by sending the matter to binding arbitration. Binding arbitration hearings begin today:

The Transport Workers Union and the MTA start binding arbitration hearings today, returning to the table for the first time since the days following last year’s transit strike.

Both sides have submitted reams of arguments, independent arbitrator George Nicolau said.