Calif.-based Metrolink's camera program to move forward

The Honorable Luis Lavin granted Metrolink's motion for summary judgment in the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen's (BLET) state court challenge to the inward-facing camera/video program.

BLET's state law theories alleged that the Metrolink camera/audio policy violates due process, violates the engineers' right to privacy and is preempted by state law. The Court found that the BLET's due process claims were without merit, that no reasonable trier of fact could find in BLET's favor and impose liability for invasion of privacy, and that there is no state preemption of Metrolink's camera policy.

"Metrolink's goal is to be the safest passenger railroad in the country. We're pleased that the state courts have joined the Federal courts in allowing our pioneering camera program to move forward," said Metrolink Board Chairman Richard Katz. "We have great respect for our engineers and crews and will work with them on their privacy concerns. But the safety of our passenger and those crews will always come first."

This state court challenge is separate from BLET's federal challenge which Metrolink won in the federal court on similar motions and which the BLET appealed to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

In October of 2009, Metrolink was the first railroad in the nation, passenger or freight, to install inward-facing cameras.