Transport organizations and truck drivers are concerned about the impact a potential rail strike could have on the trucking industry. Union workers have rejected contracts with freight railways and demanded improved working conditions and paid sick leave for employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday, November 30, in the hope of averting a rail strike. The Senate is expected to vote on the legislation sometime next week. Despite government attempts to avoid a potential economic catastrophe, representatives of the transportation industry are concerned about the consequences if the railway workers' strike, scheduled for December 9, happens after all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201eIt will be really difficult if the railroad stops operating,\u201c said Gene Collins, a truck driver. \u201eOur drivers won't be able to handle the load. We are already short of truck drivers.\u201c The American Trucking Associations is also calling on Congress to avert a potential rail strike, pointing out that the consequences could cause additional pressure on the trucking industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201eWith the strike on December 9, the railways plan to stop transporting hazardous materials, including fuel. With fuel and diesel shortages nationwide, we cannot afford any delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201eHospitals, various companies, and households depend on the railway and transportation industry, and the transportation industry has neither the equipment nor the personnel to replace the freight rail transport stoppages. Railway union representatives have not approved Congress's attempts to halt the strike planned for December 9 if their demands are not met.<\/p>\n\n\n\n