Reminder: Potential LIRR Strike as Early as May 16th
(May 12, 2026) LeadingAge NY reminds our downstate members of a possible Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) strike; some unions have threatened to strike as early as Sat., May 16th. We are alerting members in service areas that may be affected and will keep members apprised. We want to ensure that essential workers like our member workforce are planning for this possibility and have access to options to avoid disruptions in care delivery for the people you serve.
What Could Occur
If a strike happens, LIRR service would be forced to shut down entirely. The MTA reports that leaders will continue to negotiate with the unions in an effort to ensure that a strike does not happen. However, they want riders to be prepared in case employees do go on strike. Labor action could occur as soon as Sat., May 16th at 12:01 a.m. The LIRR is working with labor unions for an orderly shutdown if this were to occur. If a labor action and shutdown do occur, service may take up to 24 hours for restoration after a settlement is reached.
Additional Resources
This MTA article has been updated and provides more information, including shuttle bus service and accessible travel alternatives. The LIRR is encouraging remote working where possible. The MTA will provide limited shuttle bus service on weekdays for essential workers and those who cannot telecommute. These services are expected to account for only a portion of normal LIRR ridership, however.
We will keep members apprised of this situation.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828