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A potential strike by NJ Transit locomotive engineers is becoming increasingly likely as negotiations between the agency and the engineers' union remain unresolved. The engineers, represented by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, could strike as early as May 16 if no agreement is reached. The dispute centers on wage demands, with the union seeking a salary increase to $225,000 annually, up from their initial request of $190,000. NJ Transit has offered $172,000, an increase from $144,000.
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri has criticized the union's demands, suggesting they are not "grounded in reality" and warning that meeting the engineers' demands would necessitate a 34% fare hike for the system's 350,000 daily riders. Kolluri emphasized the economic challenges facing NJ Transit, including potential federal funding cuts and tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which could impact costs.
The union argues that higher salaries are necessary to retain engineers, as many leave for better-paying jobs at other railroads. According to New Jersey Monitor, Tom Haas, the union's general chairman, stated, "High churn rates are not a good way to keep a railroad running. The better answer is to pay a competitive wage."
Negotiations have stalled, with no further meetings scheduled before the potential strike date. Bloomberg reports that the lack of a deal increases the likelihood of a strike. NJ Transit has prepared a mitigation plan, but it would only accommodate 20% of daily rail riders, relying on buses from park-and-ride lots. Kolluri has urged those who can work from home to do so if a strike occurs.