US Rail-Union Deal Showcases Labor Angst Extending Beyond Wages

The key issue that almost triggered the first US railroad strike in 30 years and threatened to hobble the economy wasn’t wages, but sick leave, highlighting broadening worker demands in a tight labor market.

Union leaders and railway companies agreed Thursday on a deal that includes language allowing workers to take time off for doctor appointments, hospitalization or surgeries, on top of a 24% wage hike over five years.

About 125,000 rail workers will vote on whether to ratify the deal, which was brokered by the Biden administration, in coming weeks. That will serve as a gauge on how sensitive ...