United States President, Joe Biden has reacted over the proposed strike by rail workers union due to the voting against a tentative contract deal reached in September, 2022.
Biden made the reaction on his social media platform on Monday, calling on Congress to urgently pass legislation to adopt the Tentative Agreement between railroad workers and operators.
According to report, train and engine service members of transportation division of International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART-TD) narrowly voted to reject the deal.
This unit, which includes conductors, brakemen and other workers, joins three other unions in rejecting a deal brokered through a board appointed by the President.
Labor unions have criticized the railroads’ sick leave, attendance policies and the lack of paid sick days for short-term illness.
There are no paid sick days under the tentative deal as unions asked for 15 paid sick days and the railroads settled on one personal day.
Biden who made it clear that a rail shutdown would devastate United States economy, said, “Without freight rail, many U.S. industries would shut down.
Adding that, “As a proud pro-labor President, I’m reluctant to override the ratification procedures and views of those who voted against the agreement.
The further said, “But in this case, where the economic impact of a shutdown would hurt millions, I believe Congress must use its powers to adopt this deal.
“No one should have to choose between their job and their health or the health of their children. I have pressed legislation and proposals to advance the cause of paid leave in my two years in office, and will continue to do so”.
The President noted that the proposed strike is far from it at this critical moment for US economy, in the holiday season. “We cannot hurl the U.S. into a devastating rail freight shutdown. Congress should get this bill to my desk as soon as possible so we can avoid disruption”.