Baker to Congress: Be Ready to ‘Step In’ and Avert System Shutdown
In his letter, Baker stated that the U.S. freight rail network is a “crucial component of the global supply chain,” adding that “it is imperative Congress act to avoid severe and unnecessary national economic calamity.”
“Put simply, a rail system shutdown would be catastrophic for the U.S. economy, tens of thousands of businesses, and tens of millions of consumers,” Baker said. “It would spike inflation, cause industrial chaos, and be a terrible result for everyone involved.”
Baker added that he was “hopeful” there would be a voluntary agreement, calling the PEB recommendations, which include a 24% compounded raise over five years, plus $1,000 bonuses for each of the five years, “a win for rail labor.”
“Short lines are 100% committed to doing our part and more to provide excellent freight rail service, enable the success of our customers, and get the American freight transportation network back to peak reliability and efficiency, but any rail work stoppage in the U.S. or any further delay in getting a labor agreement completed helps no one,” Baker added.
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FURTHER READING:
Labor Update: Avoid Misinformation Cesspool
BMWED, IBB, SMART-MD Reach Tentative Agreements With NCCC
Railroads Prepping for Strike Action: AAR
Labor Secretary Warns Labor, Rails
AAR Report: Nationwide Rail Shutdown Could Cost $2 Billion Per Day
