NJ Transit Hit by First Statewide Strike in 40 Years

NJ Transit Faces Statewide Strike: Thousands of Commuters Affected. A statewide strike by NJ Transit train engineers has brought one of the nation's largest transportation systems to a standstill. The strike, the first of its kind in over 40 years, is the result of failed salary negotiations. "We presented them the last proposal; they rejected it and walked away with two hours left on the clock," said a union representative. The engineers, who haven't received a raise in five years, earn at least $10 less per hour than engineers at other railroad companies. The strike has left hundreds of thousands of commuters scrambling for alternative transportation options. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is urging engineers to return to the negotiating table and is encouraging commuters to work from home if possible. The situation highlights the critical role of transit workers and the need for fair compensation.