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It’s been one year since the most recent round of national bargaining concluded and progress in the freight rail industry continues on issues that matter for employees and their families. Over the past 12 months, [...]
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Get the latest facts and figures about jobs, employment, and bargaining in the freight rail industry.
Have questions about the freight rail industry or our collective bargaining process?
Who are the parties involved in national railroad bargaining?
The current national collective bargaining agreements between freight rail carriers and rail unions can reopen for negotiation starting in November 2024. At that time, “Section 6 notices” will be exchanged and bargaining will begin.
Why have some carriers and unions already announced local agreements?
National Carriers Conference Committee (NCCC) members maintain open lines of communication with their freight rail union counterparts. As recent events have demonstrated, these discussions can provide opportunities to resolve priority issues on mutually agreeable terms. We’re encouraged by the early progress to reach agreements, some of which have been ratified, and support our members’ efforts to invest in good freight rail jobs while maintaining the industry’s ability to compete in the future.
Carriers and unions that have reached ratified agreements will not need to participate in the upcoming bargaining round. The early agreements also do not change the timeline for national bargaining.
Who are the parties involved in national railroad bargaining?
The most recent round of bargaining included more than 30 railroads represented by the National Carriers’ Conference Committee and 12 rail unions:
How long does the bargaining process take?
The timing of the process can vary. Sometimes agreements are reached quickly, and at other times, negotiations have proceeded through each part of the RLA process. In the next round of negotiations, we want to reach timely, voluntary agreements that are beneficial for all stakeholders.
