Metro Workers Told “You're Fired” Now Rehired

Dozens of Metro employees who were fired for using their cell phones on the job are now getting a second chance.

Twenty-nine drivers and two mechanics were recently rehired by the transit agency, according to the Washington Examiner.  The employees worked for MetroAccess, which transports people with disabilities.

In July, Metro said that any employee who used a cell phone while operating a Metro vehicle would be fired on the first offense.  Prior to that, workers were allowed three strikes.  MetroAccess workers are required to use their phones to stay in touch with the dispatch center, but they cannot use the phones while their vehicle is moving.

The recent rehiring of these employees is part of a compromise made during union negotiations.