Groups calling on Biden ahead of more rail union votes to avoid strike

(KYMA, KECY/ CNN) - Three hundred business groups are calling on President Biden to intervene in the ratification of the agreement between rail unions and freight railroads.

In a letter Thursday, the groups asked Biden to ensure ratification.

They said a rail shutdown would have a significant impact on the economy and lead to more inflationary pressure.

Six unions have ratified that deal, two voted it down, and four have not voted. The unions that voted down the deal cited a lack of paid sick time in the agreement.

Meanwhile, there are two more union votes in November.

Unions that vote against the deal could authorize a strike if there are no new agreements by November 19th. That would send all 12 unions to the picket lines, regardless of how they voted.

To avoid a strike, congress can impose a contract on union members or extend a cooling-off period during which the unions can't strike.