US railroad union rejects contract with employers, raising strike concerns

The third-largest maintenance workers' union opposed the deal, saying concerns over paid time off remained unaddressed

The US's third-largest railroad union rejected a deal with employers Monday, renewing the possibility of a strike that could cripple the economy. Both sides will return to the bargaining table before that happens.

Over half of track maintenance workers represented by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division who voted opposed the five-year contract, which contained 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. Union President Tony Cardwell said the railroads didn't do enough to address the lack of paid time off - particularly sick time - and working conditions after the major railroads eliminated nearly one-third of their jobs over the past six years.