LIRR Unions Threaten Strike if Wage Demands Aren’t Met
Five influential unions representing LIRR workers are threatening to paralyze metropolitan areas unless the MTA agrees to a substantial wage increase. If negotiations fail, a strike could begin as soon as May 16th, leading to the shutdown of rail services across much of New York.
Both Governor Kathy Hochul and her Republican opponent Bruce Blakeman have voiced their intention to resist what they describe as extortion attempts. They believe it’s crucial to stand against these actions and protect New Yorkers.
“We’re talking about a complete and total shutdown,” warned Kevin Sexton from the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Railroadmen. “The clock is ticking,” he added, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Meanwhile, Jeff Klein from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers expressed that union members are prepared to take strong measures, even if it means enduring a long strike.
One can’t help but wonder who they think they are, making such demands and threats.
Interestingly, LIRR salaries are already quite high. In fact, the average salary for the five unions in 2024 is around $136,000, which is among the highest in the nation according to MTA data.
Notably, these unions had previously accepted wage increases of 3%, 3%, and 3.5% over the last three years—similar to what about 80% of MTA’s other unions agreed to.
However, unlike their counterparts, these five unions are now asking for an inflated 5% increase for the fourth year of their contract, which could set a troubling precedent.
If the MTA concedes, other unions might follow suit, leading to further chaos.
To prevent a strike, the MTA has proposed a 4.5% wage increase for the fourth year, but this would require the unions to agree to modify some existing work rules to save costs.
For instance, one rule states that engineers should be compensated for operating a diesel car and a train on the same day. It’s puzzling—why should anyone get paid for just showing up?
Even more bizarre, if an engineer drives a passenger train but then returns to the depot on a train, they receive full payment for that day. It’s a nonsensical system, and reform is necessary.
So far, however, the unions have dismissed the MTA’s offer. Their apparent disregard for riders and taxpayers—who face service reductions and fare hikes—has raised eyebrows, especially as this debate unfolds in an election year.
To her credit, Governor Hochul has not yet aligned with the union’s demands, but questions linger about her resolve. In an unexpected twist, Blakeman seems to be advising Hochul to acquiesce to the unions.
County executives in Nassau have called for the government to proceed with recommendations from two presidential emergency commissions that tend to support government positions.
Does he genuinely believe that backing labor groups in New York will lead to electoral success? It’s worth mentioning that Blakeman also supported a costly bill mandating two drivers on every subway train and hinted at endorsing pension bonuses.
If Hochul capitulates to the LIRR unions, Blakeman may find himself sharing some of the blame.
