LIRR strike ends as MTA reaches deal with unions after chaotic commute
Key Points:
- The Long Island Rail Road strike ended Monday night after the MTA reached a tentative deal with five labor unions representing over half the LIRR workforce, who had been working without a raise since 2023.
- Gov. Kathy Hochul announced phased LIRR service would resume Tuesday at noon, with no additional fare hikes or tax increases required under the agreement.
- Regular train service will remain suspended Tuesday morning due to crew positioning, with limited shuttle bus service continuing through the morning rush; commuters are advised to work from home if possible.
- The tentative four-year contract includes retroactive pay and expires in July 2027, but still requires ratification by union members and approval by the MTA board; details of the agreement have not been fully disclosed.
- The contract negotiations were contentious, involving two Presidential Emergency Boards, with disputes over wage increases and work rule reforms, including changes to pay for certain duties and ticket clerk responsibilities.