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Surface Transportation Board Accepts Revised UP-Norfolk Southern Merger Filing

The Surface Transportation Board unanimously accepted a revised merger application from Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern on May 28, 2026, clearing the way for formal consideration of the proposed combination between two major U.S. rail carriers. The companies resubmitted their application on April 30 following initial discussions with regulators. The decision to accept the filing does not indicate approval of the merger itself, but rather marks the beginning of the formal review process. Multiple state attorneys general have signaled opposition to the deal, urging the STB to reject the application on competitive grounds. The merger would create a transcontinental rail network combining two of North America's largest freight operators.