Talks Continue As NJ TRANSIT Strike Looms
NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- NJ TRANSIT rail workers are prepared to strike if the agency doesn't improve on an offer they say would increase health premiums by hundreds of dollars per month, union officials said.
At NJ TRANSIT's board meeting Wednesday, the head of the union that represents conductors said more than a dozen unions affected by the contract negotiations have authorized a strike if necessary.
The conductors' union head says health insurance increases in NJ TRANSIT's offer would almost totally negate a proposed wage increase.
The deadline for a possible walkout is March 13.
Interim NJ TRANSIT executive director Dennis Martin didn't comment on specific proposals. He said the parties have a meeting scheduled but didn't give a date. The parties last met last week.
"We remain focused on reaching an affordable settlement with our rail unions," Martin said in a statement.
NJ TRANSIT is working on developing "a robust alternative service plan" in the event of a strike, Martin said.
NJ TRANSIT's last strike was in 1983.
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