The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen has voted against the proposed agreement negotiated with the National Carriers' Conference Committee representing rail operators.  The Signalmen voted two one to reject the proposal joining with the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees.

Railroad employees are subjected to a specific provision of labor law limiting the right to strike and imposed cooling-off periods.  Although Congress can extend periods during which unions are enjoined from striking, Congress will only be in session for a short time in November in a “lame-duck” session.  The House and Senate are both under Democratic control until a new Congressional term commences in 2023 so it is unclear whether a strike or intervention will occur.