Railroads face pressure to divert buyback funds to safety

Rail unions want railroads to spend more on safety upgrades and hiring rather than stock buybacks.
Between 2015 and 2019, major freight railroads spent $165 billion on buybacks and $119 billion on infrastructure and equipment.
Safety concerns are rising due to recent derailments and job cuts, although railroads say operations remain safe.
While stock buybacks are common, unions argue railroads should invest more in safety and workers.
Business experts say buybacks are acceptable but understand union concerns about infrastructure and hiring.