LIRR shutdown tests New York commutes as unions demand bigger raises

Unions representing roughly half of Long Island Rail Road workers began a strike at 12:01 a.m., halting service and forcing roughly 300,000 daily riders to seek alternatives as contract talks with the MTA stalled. The dispute centers on wages—unions seek 16% over four years while the MTA has offered about 9.5% over three years plus a future rise—amid fare-concern warnings, with Gov. Hochul urging telework and the MTA operating limited free shuttle service for essential travelers.