Report: BART unions give notice of possible strike

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- BART unions are reportedly getting closer to a possible labor strike.

The San Francisco Chronicle reports http://bitly.com/13bGGVw ) the unions gave notice of a possible strike late Thursday night that could start when their contracts expire at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.

Union representatives gave the 72-hour notice, which is not required, as a courtesy to passengers so they could plan ahead.

The paper says that union officials did not elaborate on the decision, saying they would provide more details later Friday morning.

The notice does not guarantee that employees will strike.

Employees want a raise and protection for health care and pension benefits.

The BART unions are scheduled to meet with transit officials to come up with a new labor agreement Friday, Saturday and Sunday.