Unions’ hidden LIRR-strike scheme aims to pick everyone’s pockets
The Long Island Rail Road strike is causing significant disruptions for commuters and may lead to increased fares and taxes in the MTA region. Negotiations over union contracts have stalled, with unions demanding higher raises than what has been offered. This situation is complicated by the unique legal status of LIRR employees, which allows for strikes that could influence negotiations for other MTA unions.
- ▪The LIRR strike has been ongoing since early Saturday and is affecting commutes from Manhattan to Suffolk County.
- ▪Negotiations over the LIRR's union contracts have been dragging on for three years, now potentially affecting other MTA contracts.
- ▪The unions are seeking a larger raise than the 3% offered for the fourth year, despite previously agreeing to 9.8% raises and lump-sum payments.
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Opinion Unions’ hidden LIRR-strike scheme aims to pick everyone’s pockets By Ken Girardin and John Ketcham Published May 18, 2026, 8:20 p.m. ET The ongoing Long Island Rail Road strike threatens higher MTA fares and taxes across the region. Matthew McDermott for NY Post See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google The Long Island Rail Road strike that began early Saturday continues upending commutes from Manhattan to Suffolk County. Unbeknownst to most riders, they’re collateral damage in a much bigger but less visible fight that could slam the entire MTA region with both higher fares and heavier taxes. Negotiations over the LIRR’s union contracts, which came up for renewal in 2023, have been dragging on for three years.
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