The United Transportation Union has backed the maligned commuter rail project in Orlando, giving the $641-million project a breathe of support heading into debate this week.

Citing a protection that its workers wouldn't be excluded, the union "is supporting of efforts to bring commuter rail," wrote Andres Trujillo, director of the UTU's Florida legislative board, in a letter to CSX lobbyist Craig Camuso. Union unease, along with trial lawyer complaints, had helped lead to legislation for the project being withdrawn in the Senate.

Update: The Florida AFL-CIO isn't a fan, though. "The majority of our unions remain in strong opposition to the CSX deal.  The idea that Florida is handing out almost $650 million in corporate welfare while vital services for sick children are being cut is of great concern to Florida’s labor movement," responds spokesman Rich Templin, who questions the job protections. (more)

The state' transportation department's $150-million purchase of CSX rail line, and state-paid improvements to the private company's freight lines, have angered some lawmakers who did not get a chance to vet it. Debate on chipping away the rail project's funding in the 2008-09 budget is expected Wednesday in the Senate. A House council could vote on a bill Friday that exempts CSX for any liability for damages it causes to state commuter trains.