Trending Now - Midnight Deadline Looms for LIRR as Unions and MTA Negotiate

WHO:

Gothamist - Five unions representing roughly half the LIRR's workforce.

ABC News US - Unionized workers of the New York-area train system.

WHAT:

Gothamist - The LIRR is slated to shut down unless the MTA gives concessions on pay and work rules.

ABC News US - The New York-area train system serves 250,000 daily commuters and is facing a potential shutdown.

WHERE:

ABC News US - New York-area train system.

WHEN:

Gothamist - The shutdown is expected to occur at midnight unless an agreement is reached.

WHY:

Gothamist - Unions are demanding concessions on pay and work rules from the MTA.

HOW:

Gothamist - Negotiations are ongoing between the MTA and the unions to avert a strike.

(UPDATED May 15, 2026 17:28 UTC)

The Long Island Rail Road, which serves about 250,000 daily commuters, is facing a potential shutdown at midnight unless the Metropolitan Transportation Authority agrees to concessions on pay and work rules demanded by five unions representing roughly half of its workforce. Negotiations are currently ongoing between the MTA and the unions in an effort to avert this disruption. If an agreement is not reached, the shutdown will significantly impact the New York-area train system and its riders.