Long Island Rail Road workers go on strike after failing to reach new contract
The strike stems from an inability to reach a deal on a new four-year contract. The MTA and unions agreed to the terms of the first three years, but disputes arose about the final year.
May 16, 2026 / 12:09 AM EDT / CBS New York
Tens of thousands of commuters in southeastern New York will be impacted as the Long Island Rail Road shuts down due to a strike over contract negotiations.
The union was looking for a 5% pay increase. The MTA said they were offering a 3% raise with options that could bring it up to 4.5%, provided some work rules concessions are made.
MTA officials previously said the 5% hike will mean higher fares systemwide, including the subways, buses and Metro-North.
The LIRR is the busiest commuter railroad in North America, carrying about 250,000 passengers each weekday, according to its website.