Mediation Board Steps In as LIRR Strike Persists; Hochul Urges Talks to Resume

The National Mediation Board has summoned the LIRR unions and the MTA to resume bargaining as the Long Island Rail Road strike continues, disrupting service for about 300,000 daily riders. About 3,500 workers walked off, half the LIRR workforce, prompting Gov. Hochul to urge a return to talks and warn that a brief strike could erase potential raises. The MTA claims offers include pay raises but stresses financial stability; starting Monday it will run limited free shuttle buses from six Long Island stations to two Queens hubs and promote remote work where possible as it plans additional subway support. Union leaders fault the bargaining process, while federal mediation efforts aim to move negotiations forward.