Members of the American Rail System Federation on the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis and the Norfolk and Portsmouth Belt Line have ratified new collective bargaining agreements.

The ARSF members on both properties were extremely engaged throughout the process and that diligence has led to significant improvements to the contract, most notably gains to the health and welfare portion without concessions. General wage increases of 18.77 percent for the life of the five-year contract are identical on both properties. Members on the NPBL will also see an increase of their CDL differential.

In addition to these improvements, members will receive an increase in Health & Welfare benefits and new vacation accrual starting January 1, 2025. Furthermore, wage increases will take effect in July 2025, marking a significant moment where contract terms were maintained without subjecting members to the delay of backpay.

“The contracts on both the TRRA and NPBL properties were achieved by the engagement, dedication and involvement of our members on both properties,” ARSF General Chairman Johnny Long said. “Yes, these are smaller properties, but they are and remain vital to our Brotherhood and the ARSF. The members on both carriers understood their issues and demanded their voices be heard at the bargaining table. They stood mighty and were able to reach agreements that will increase their pay and benefits and improve their work lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to stand with them and deliver two contracts that will provide stability over the next five years.”

You can view the CBAs on both properties below: