The International Association of Machinists District Lodge 19 has reached a tentative agreement with US rail carriers, looking to end a labor dispute that came close to stalling national rail traffic earlier this month.
The union said Thursday it had reached an agreement that would cap health-care costs, offer better travel accommodations, and require employers to bargain over travel expenses and per diem payments. The proposal would provide a 24% general wage increase and a $5,000 bonus upon ratification.
The agreement must still be ratified by District Lodge 19 members. The 5,000-member local rejected an earlier tentative agreement on Sept. ...