Train speeding pastShipping delays on U.S. railroads have been a serious problem for infrastructure and agricultural goods transportation. As harvest draws nearer, concerns are growing about a possible labor stoppage in the next few weeks, during the height of harvest season. Labor discussions between rail carriers and rail laborers continue as both sides participate in the collective bargaining process. Both sides have 30 days to accept recommendations from the White House-appointed Presidential Emergency Board.

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), which has members on both sides of the coin, has been watching the situation closely. The biggest takeaway from the recommendations is a 24% wage increase over five years. Rail workers can legally go on strike starting September 16, but Congress can intervene.

The last labor stoppage was in the 90s and only lasted one to two days before Congress passed legislation prohibiting a strike. If that happens now, both sides will need to go back to work to continue the bargaining process.

Read more on the potential labor stoppage here.