Union Pacific wants to buy Norfolk Southern. Rail workers, shippers, and communities will live with the result. Speak up before November 18, 2026.
What’s at stake?
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are asking federal regulators to approve a merger that would create a single transcontinental railroad. Fewer carriers means less competition, and that can mean higher shipping costs, weaker service, and less leverage for workers. After decades of consolidation, rail workers have seen leaner crews and longer trains, and communities along the line bear the safety consequences.
The Surface Transportation Board decides whether this merger goes forward. …
Union Pacific wants to buy Norfolk Southern. Rail workers, shippers, and communities will live with the result. Speak up before November 18, 2026.
What’s at stake?
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are asking federal regulators to approve a merger that would create a single transcontinental railroad. Fewer carriers means less competition, and that can mean higher shipping costs, weaker service, and less leverage for workers. After decades of consolidation, rail workers have seen leaner crews and longer trains, and communities along the line bear the safety consequences.
The Surface Transportation Board decides whether this merger goes forward. It can approve it, reject it, or attach conditions. Its decision turns on the public record, so what goes into that record matters.
Two ways to act:
1. Write to your representatives. Members of Congress can put their opposition on the record by writing directly to the STB, and many have already written about this merger. Ask yours to file a letter, urge the Board to hold public hearings, and take a public position. It takes about two minutes.
2. Send your comment to the STB. The Board only accepts comments through registered parties. Public Rail Now is a party of record, so we’ll file your comment for you. Submit your comment
Rail worker worried about retaliation? Use the comment form. Your name will not be attached to the filing. Leave out details that could identify you, such as your terminal, crew base, or supervisor’s name. The petition does collect your name and address, so skip it if you’re concerned.