Rail Strike Averted

Following a marathon negotiating session extending over 20-hours, the railroad operators and the consortium of unions representing workers have agreed to terms for a five-year contract, averting a nationwide rail strike. The implications of a strike to the economy, disruption of supply chains and the political implications of a work stoppage of even short duration are self-evident. 

The involvement of the White House and Labor secretary Marty Walsh contributed to the accord that now requires ratification by rank-and-file members of the unions involved.