05/29/2026
IAM Local 754 Members Overwhelmingly Ratify New Agreement Following Historic Three-Day Strike.
For more than three years, Machinists (IAM), Electricians (IBEW), Signalmen (BRS), Clerical Workers (TCU), and Locomotive Engineers (BLET) stood shoulder to shoulder fighting for a fair contract that provided real wage growth while navigating the lengthy process established under the Railway Labor Act. After exhausting every step of the process, all five unions exercised their legal right to strike at 12:01 a.m. on May 16 and established picket lines across Long Island Rail Road properties.
This marked the first strike at the Long Island Rail Road in more than 30 years. Throughout negotiations, the Carrier repeatedly rejected opportunities to reach a voluntary settlement based on the recommendations of two Presidential Emergency Boards. Once workers were finally permitted to exercise their legal right to strike, a tentative agreement was reached within three days.
"We are extremely proud of the solidarity and determination shown by the members of IAM Local 754 throughout this process. For more than three years, they remained united in their commitment to securing a fair agreement and were prepared to do whatever was necessary, including striking, to achieve that goal."
— Shaun O'Connor, General Chairman, IAM District 19
"Our Machinists ran disciplined, well-organized strike lines and demonstrated the strength of a united membership. Members worked rotating 12-hour shifts around the clock, and morale remained high throughout the strike. I had the opportunity to visit every IAM picket line, and the support from the surrounding communities was incredible, with people delivering food, water, and encouragement. This agreement is proof that when railroad workers stand together, fight together, and refuse to back down, they can win."
— Reece Murtagh, President Directing General Chairman, IAM District 19
