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Farm Groups Push Back Against UP-NS Rail Merger

The National Farmers Union is calling on the Surface Transportation Board to block the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, warning that additional rail consolidation threatens agricultural shippers across the country. NFU President Rob Larew said past railroad mergers have consistently harmed family farmers through reduced competition, higher rates, and service deterioration. The organization represents over 220,000 family farmers and ranchers and argues the STB review must prioritize rail competition and protect the broader food supply chain. Farmers already face mounting pressures from elevated input costs and trade policy uncertainty, the NFU noted. The group warned that additional consolidation could leave shippers with limited alternatives vulnerable to rate increases and unreliable service. The NFU advocates for stricter antitrust enforcement and expanded reciprocal switching to boost rail-to-rail competition.