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NEW YORK, NY December 15, 2006 —New York City transit workers should know today whether their controversial union president will hang onto his job, almost a year after their three-day strike. WNYC's Beth Fertig has more.

Roger Toussaint knew he was taking a risk when he led the strike by Transport Workers Union Local 100. But one year later, his 34,000 members are still without a contract because they rejected the deal Toussaint negotiated. The union was fined $2.5 million for striking in violation of state law, and Toussaint spent about a week in jail.

Now, he's being challenged by 4 other candidates who want to lead the embattled union. Ballots will be counted today. Meanwhile, a state appointed arbiter could announce a new contract some time after the elections are finished. Labor leaders around the city will be watching closely to see how it compares to the deal Toussaint originally negotiated - which included a 1.5% healthcare contribution.

For WNYC, I'm Beth Fertig.