Union, MTA resume talks as LIRR strike threat looms on May 16

NEW YORK (WABC) -- There is another effort underway to avoid a strike that could bring several forms of public transit to a halt.

Management with the MTA and the Long Island Rail Road plans to return to the bargaining table with union members on Thursday.

Workers have threatened to go on strike on May 16 if a deal cannot be reached.

Negotiations between Long Island Rail Road workers and the MTA have been going on for months.

Just last week, union members attended an MTA board meeting demanding that talks resume to avoid a looming strike.

At issue are raises, as a strike could lead to major service disruptions.

MTA officials say if they give LIRR workers what they are asking for, it could result in a fare hike as high as 8%.

Labor leaders dispute that claim and say they are pushing for a fair wage.

So far, the MTA says both sides have agreed to retroactive raises.

However, the sticking point remains 2026 pay increases. The union is seeking a 5% raise, while the MTA is offering 3% unless concessions are made.

MTA officials say covering the additional costs could require service cuts, job reductions, or an 8% fare increase next year.

White House-appointed mediators say there is no indication the MTA cannot afford the proposed increases.

Union members have announced plans for a rally in Massapequa this weekend.

If an agreement is not reached, LIRR union workers plan to strike Saturday, May 16.

"While the MTA boasts about expanding service revenue, our unions fall farther behind," said union leader Gillman Lang. "We have made compromises in our ask and are ready to sit down at the bargaining table and settle an agreement now."

If a strike happens, MTA officials say contingency plans are in place, including shuttle buses for LIRR riders.

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