May 16, 2026, NEW YORK – Workers on Long Island Rail Road are officially on strike as of 12:01 a.m. following the expiration of the final status quo period under the Railway Labor Act.
This is the first strike on LIRR in more than 30 years. After years of negotiations, mediation, and two Presidential Emergency Boards, the MTA refused to reach an agreement consistent with the recommendations of PEBs 253 and 254.
From the release of PEB 253 forward, the Coalition maintained that a voluntary agreement could be reached based on the Boards’ recommendations. The Carrier refused to get there.
“Our members stood together through every stage of this process and remained focused on securing an agreement that protected real wages and respected the work performed on this property every day,” said National President Matt Hollis. “We are grateful for the solidarity, patience, and determination shown by the membership throughout this dispute. The responsibility for this work stoppage rests squarely with the Carrier’s failure to reach a fair agreement.”
“Our members earned the recommendations of two Presidential Emergency Boards and still the MTA refused to do the right thing,” said National Vice President Nick Peluso. “Our people keep this railroad moving every day and they deserve an agreement that recognizes that. Instead, the Carrier pushed this dispute to a strike.”
Strike locations, schedules, and contact information have previously been distributed to members through their respective organizations. LIRR members should remain in contact with their union representatives for further instructions and updates.
Further information will be communicated as developments occur.
Click here to see the Joint Release from the Long Island Bargaining Coalition