NJ Transit Engineers Reject Federal Wage Proposal, Potential Strike Looms in March

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, New Jersey commuters could face major disruptions this spring as the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) has rejected a settlement proposal in its ongoing wage dispute with NJ Transit. The decision paves the way for a possible train engineers’ strike as early as March 22, 2025.

Why Are NJ Transit Engineers Rejecting the Deal?

The contract dispute stems from wage differences between NJ Transit engineers and their counterparts at other major rail networks. NJ Transit engineers are demanding a 14% pay increase in fiscal year 2028, bringing their hourly wage to $55.79. However, NJ Transit has countered with a 4% wage hike, which would cap engineer salaries at $50.89 per hour.

The BLET argues that engineers at Amtrak, Long Island Railroad, and Metro-North Commuter Railroad earn at least $10 more per hour, despite performing similar work. They also cite inflation from 2021 to 2023 as a major factor reducing their real wages.

NJ Transit’s Stance & Federal Involvement

NJ Transit, led by CEO Kris Kolluri, has defended its wage offer and pattern bargaining approach, which aims to keep wage increases consistent across different bargaining units.

“We remain committed to reaching a resolution that is both fair and sustainable for NJ Transit, the hard-working men and women of the BLET, and New Jersey taxpayers,” Kolluri stated.

The federal board overseeing the dispute, first convened by the Biden administration, reviewed both proposals and determined that NJ Transit’s offer was the most reasonable. However, the board admitted that NJ Transit’s 4% wage increase may be too low, while also arguing that the 14% demand from engineers was unjustified.

Could a Strike Actually Happen?

With negotiations at a standstill, engineers could legally strike by March 22 if no agreement is reached. However, railway strikes are heavily regulated due to their impact on interstate commerce, meaning federal intervention is possible.

In 2022, President Joe Biden signed emergency legislation to prevent a national freight rail strike, forcing unions to accept a federal settlement. If NJ Transit engineers walk off the job, President Donald Trump could choose to urge Congress to intervene, as he did earlier this month in a dispute involving the International Longshoremen’s Alliance.

What a Strike Would Mean for NJ Transit Riders

Unlike freight rail strikes, which impact shipping and logistics, an NJ Transit commuter rail strike would primarily disrupt daily travel for thousands of New Jerseyans. This could lead to severe congestion on roads and highways, higher demand for alternative transit options, and significant delays for workers commuting into New York City and other business hubs.

What’s Next?

BLET representatives are set to meet with NJ Transit leadership, including CEO Kris Kolluri, in an attempt to avert a strike and reach a fair agreement.

“We hope that the new guard at NJ Transit will choose to avoid a disruption in service by meeting with the union and working out a fair deal,” said BLET President Eddie Hall.

With the March deadline approaching, commuters should stay informed and prepare for potential disruptions. If no resolution is reached, NJ Transit could see its first major engineers’ strike in decades.

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