Railroad Dispute Board (E.O. 14077)

Summary

Creates a special group to look into disagreements between railroad companies and their workers and give a report to the President.

What problem does this solve?

Disagreements between railroad companies and their workers threaten to stop important train services across the country. This order creates a special board to study the disagreements and recommend a solution, preventing a transportation shutdown.

What does this order do?

Establishes an Emergency Board

Creates a board with a chair and two other members, appointed by the President, to investigate the disputes. Members cannot have a financial interest in any railroad company or employee union.

Requires a 'cooling-off' period

Prohibits railroad companies or unions from changing the situation, such as by striking or locking out workers, from the time the board is created until 30 days after it submits its report.

Sets a reporting deadline

Requires the Board to investigate the disputes and report its findings to the President within 30 days of its creation.

Terminates the Board after its report

Specifies that the Board will end its work as soon as it submits its report to the President.

Who does this affect?

Railroad employee unions
Railroad companies
Railroad workers

What is the real world impact?

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Prevents a national railroad strike

Aims to stop a potential strike by railroad workers, which could halt essential transportation services and harm the U.S. economy by disrupting supply chains.

When does this start?

This order creates a board with a specific start date and sets deadlines for its work.

Board establishment

The Emergency Board is officially created on July 18, 2022, at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time.

Report to the President

The Board must give its report to the President within 30 days of its creation (by August 17, 2022).

No changes period

Prohibits strikes or lockouts from when the board is created and for 30 days after it gives its report.