Washington, D.C. (November 30, 2022): Despite being the “best friend the Unions ever had”, President Biden recognized the severe negative impact a rail strike would have on fragile supply chains and the economy at this critical time, and called the four top leaders in Congress to the White House to press for Congressional action under the Railway Labor Act to avoid a rail labor disruption. SFIA joined other business interests on a letter to Congressional leaders on Monday pressing for intervention to avoid a rail strike.
Today, with pressure from the White House, businesses, and industry, the House of Representatives passed an Emergency Resolution to implement the Tentative Agreement negotiated with rail unions and operators. The Resolution now will go to the Senate where it is expected to pass after debate. President Biden has indicated he will sign the Resolution to avoid a crippling nationwide rail strike as early as December 9th.
The labor contract was negotiated in September with the involvement of Labor Secretary Walsh to hammer out the final agreement. Eight of the 12 rail unions approved the contract, but four rejected it due to paid sick leave issues. All of the unions were prepared to strike in support of their fellow rail unions.
The rail strike being averted is good news for the already struggling supply chain.
Click here to read the full letter.
For more information or for questions, please contact Bill Sells, SVP, Government Relations & Public Affairs, at [email protected].