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Rail Bargaining 101

Discover the structured bargaining process that is used to establish pay and benefits for railroaders, keep America’s freight rail industry on track, and ensure our economy continues moving forward.  

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The Process

Railroad negotiations are governed by the Railway Labor Act (RLA), a federal statute that facilitates negotiations between freight railroads and the labor unions that represent rail workers while preventing disruptions to interstate commerce. 

Bargaining Status

Learn about the status of the current round of collective bargaining.

Latest Updates

NCCC, BLET Announce National Tentative Agreement

2025 bargaining round has seen historic collaboration between freight rail carriers and the unions Arlington,...

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SMART-TD Members Vote to Ratify National Agreements with the NCCC

Within the first year of national bargaining, 75% of rail union employees have ratified agreements....

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NCCC and SMART-TD, the largest freight rail union, have finalized a National Tentative Agreement

Once ratified, more than 80% will be covered by pattern terms. Arlington, Va. (September 16,...

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NCCC, BRS Announce National Tentative Agreement

Arlington, Va. (August 26, 2025) – The National Carriers Conference Committee (NCCC) today announced it...

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