US Freight Railroads Reach Tentative Deals With Three Unions

A group of large US freight railroads has reached tentative agreements with unions representing more than 15,000 workers, a step to avoid a widespread strike after years of failed labor talks.

The deals with three of the 12 rail unions come several weeks after a mediation board appointed by the White House issued recommendations including wage increases and expanded health coverage. Railroads including BNSF Railway Co. and Union Pacific Corp.said the terms reflect the board’s recommendations, including a 24% wage increase through 2024, with a 14.1% increase effective immediately, according to a statement Monday by the National Carriers’ Conference ...