The largest freight union, SMART Transportation Division, comprised of 28,000 workers has rejected the contract agreement brokered by the Biden Administration.
Almost 51 percent voted against the deal.
Another large union, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, voted to ratify the agreement by 53 percent, according to Reuters.
The agreement gives workers a quarter percent increase in pay over five years, and some changes to the railroads’ strict attendance policies.
There are now four unions that have voted down the agreement. If no agreement is reached by December 8th, the railroads could lock workers out or workers could go on strike.
Story via David Shepardson and Lisa Baertlein with Reuters
Agricultural groups warn that the deal could limit competition and raise transportation costs for farmers
March 19, 2026 03:57 PM
·
The Trump Administration’s new rule limiting CDL renewals for immigrant truckers is seeing mixed reactions in agriculture. While some support the change, it is raising concerns about higher freight costs and impacts on U.S. grain export competitiveness.
March 19, 2026 02:35 PM
·
At the Port of Brownsville, shrimpers are facing rising operating costs and increased competition, but many shrimp producers and local lawmakers remain optimistic about the industry’s future.
March 19, 2026 01:22 PM
·
Geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt fertilizer shipments, raising costs and creating uncertainty for U.S. farmers ahead of planting season.
March 18, 2026 03:21 PM
·
President Trump issues a 60-day Jones Act waiver to ease fuel shipments amid Middle East tensions disrupting energy markets, while biofuel policy gains focus.
March 18, 2026 11:38 AM
·
Corn and sorghum exports continue outperforming soybeans.
March 18, 2026 08:00 AM
·