STB rejects requests to dismiss UP-NS merger application

STB Keeps UP-NS Merger Alive, but Board Member Flags ‘Lack of Transparency’

The regulator rejected motions to dismiss the $85 billion merger application, but new board member Richard Kloster said the railroads still have “a long way to go” to prove the deal serves the public interest.

Newest STB member criticizes UP-NS merger application - Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen

(Source: Trains.com, September 22, 2026) When the Surface Transportation Board shot down requests to summarily dismiss the Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger application on September 18, the board’s newest member also fired a warning shot across the railroads’ bow. Richard Kloster, a Trump administration appointee sworn in on June 5, said the merger application is shallow, lacks detail on how UP will address competition concerns, and offers n…

STB rejects requests to dismiss UP-NS merger application

Opponents filed motions seeking summary denial of revised application. Regulator will proceed with review.