When did national negotiations start?
The current national collective bargaining agreements between freight rail carriers and rail unions reopened for negotiation on November 1, 2024. At that time, “Section 6 notices” were exchanged and bargaining began.
Who are the parties involved in national railroad bargaining?
The most current round of bargaining includes 28 railroads represented by the National Carriers’ Conference Committee and 12 rail unions:
How does this round of bargaining compare to previous rounds?
While the timing of agreements this early in the national bargaining round is noteworthy, this progress reflects the long history of productive collaboration between rail carriers and unions, resulting in mutually beneficial agreements that address employee priorities and keep the industry running.
Why have some carriers and unions already announced new agreements?
Some carriers (including those represented by the NCCC) and unions have proactively reached and ratified agreements early in the bargaining process, including both local and national agreements. The early local agreements established a pattern that provides a clear framework for resolving the national round, addressing key employee priorities and providing wage increases, enhanced health benefits and earlier access to paid time off.
Carriers and unions that have reached ratified agreements do not need to participate in the current bargaining round. The early agreements also do not change the timeline for national bargaining.
What happens if a tentative agreement isn’t ratified?
If a tentative agreement isn’t ratified, the union remains in direct bargaining and negotiations will continue. If an agreement isn’t immediately ratified, it does not impact broader industry operations or create the potential for a work stoppage under the Railway Labor Act. The pattern established by earlier agreements provides a strong framework to resolve any issues and reach agreements that benefit employees and provide industry stability.
