NJ Transit Strike: Commuters Face Chaos Amidst Wage Dispute

New Jersey Transit train engineers launched a strike on May 16, 2025, bringing the state's third-largest rail system to a standstill. The walkout, affecting more than 350,000 commuters, is primarily due to a wage dispute. Union officials assert their members' salaries lag behind those at other major passenger railroads. "Enough is enough," stated Tom Haas, General Chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, emphasizing the need for a fair wage increase. Commuters faced significant disruptions, with Adam Ismail, a New Jersey commuter, describing the situation as a "mess." NJ Transit is urging commuters to work from home if possible and is providing limited bus service, but estimates only 20% of rail customers can be accommodated. Negotiations between the transit authority and the union are ongoing.