The MTA is facing a potential strike on the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) as it remains at an impasse with union groups over wage increases and labor rule changes. Workers may strike as early as May 16, potentially halting operations for America’s busiest commuter rail line. MTA leaders are preparing shuttle buses and notifying over 300,000 daily riders about the likelihood of a strike.
The five unions representing more than half of MTA and LIRR employees are demanding a 5% raise for the final year of their contract, while the MTA is offering 3%, arguing that higher wages could lead to fare increases and service cuts. Gilman Lang, the general chairman of one union, criticized the MTA for a lack of negotiation, stating that no meetings have occurred in many weeks.
After a public statement, MTA Chairman Jano Lieber and other officials met with union leaders to discuss negotiations, but no agreement was reached, with another meeting planned for next week.
In preparation for a strike, the MTA has arranged 275 shuttle buses to transport commuters to subway stations during peak hours, which could cost around $550,000 daily. MTA CFO Jay Patel warned that a 5% raise would trigger fare increases of 8% next year and necessitate service and job cuts. Union spokesperson Jamie Horowitz refuted these claims, asserting that fares would not increase and criticizing Lieber’s comments on work-from-home scenarios as out of touch.
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