The deadline for Long Island Railroad (LIRR) workers to potentially go on strike is approaching, with 3,500 workers threatening to walk out as early as May 16. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is currently in negotiations with multiple labor unions, but no agreement has been reached. The unions are demanding a 5% raise for the fourth year of their contracts, which begins in June 2026, while the MTA has proposed a 3% raise, with a possibility of increasing it to 4.5% contingent on certain concessions. If the strike occurs, it would result in a complete shutdown of LIRR services, affecting up to 300,000 commuters each day. In anticipation of potential disruptions, the MTA has advised commuters to work from home if possible and to allow extra travel time. Limited shuttle buses will operate during peak hours from select Long Island locations to subway transfer points in Queens.