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On Jan. 11, the National Mediation Board (NMB) plans to conduct an open meeting in Washington, D.C., to obtain feedback on proposed changes to arbitration rules.

Earlier this year, the board issued a notice of proposed rulemaking calling for the creation of a fee schedule governing certain arbitration services, primarily minor labor disputes in the railroad industry. Fees would range from $75 to $350.

Rail labor unions oppose the fees, claiming employees who file claims often allege a financial loss less than the proposed fees, such as loss of a day's pay or overtime, or travel pay or expenses. Many workers would be discouraged from filing for arbitration, labor union officials believe.