The union that represents 500 Long Island Rail Road train operators has filed for federal mediation during a potential contract impasse.
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen applied to the National Mediation Board for assistance in negotiating a new contract with the LIRR.
Kevin Sexton is the union chairman. He told Newsday that the decision to seek mediation was due to a comment by the MTA chief financial officer who suggested some union workers may have to forego future raises.
MTA Chairman Patrick Foye said the transit agency will be able to implement all negotiated wage increases and contract negotiations after the MTA receives $6.5 billion in funding from the coronavirus relief package.
The LIRR and the union last sought mediation in 2014 when the railroad before an impending strike.
