Overview

• SMART-TD endorsed the proposed $85 billion acquisition after Union Pacific put CEO Jim Vena’s no-layoff commitment in writing with promises of career-long job protection.
• BMWED remains opposed, saying the offer fails to safeguard workers who could be shifted to short-line railroads or forced to relocate to keep their pay and conditions.
• President Donald Trump said the deal “sounds good to me,” and his appointments to the STB could influence the outcome after he removed a Democratic member and nominated a replacement.
• More than 100 shippers back the plan for a single-line coast-to-coast network, while the American Chemistry Council and the Rail Customer Coalition warn of reduced competition, higher costs and potential service disruptions.
• The railroads plan to file their merger application by Jan. 29, the STB review could take up to two years, and company leaders say they are confident of approval.