Yardmaster Protection Act Introduced

Momentum Builds for Yardmaster Safety and Quality of Life 

U.S. Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) and Mike Lawler (R-NY-97) have introduced the Railroad Yardmaster Protection Act of 2025 in the U.S. House of Representatives.  

“Yardmasters are the traffic controllers of our country’s railroad network,” said Representative Carbajal. “Like their counterparts in aviation, they play a vital role in ensuring the safety of everyone traveling by train. My bipartisan legislation will improve working conditions and support the professionals who keep America’s railroads running safely and efficiently.” 

If passed and signed into law, Yardmasters would enjoy the same maximum of 12 hours of service as the T&E crews. The absence of federally regulated rest periods contributes to fatigue, risking the safety of others while diminishing their quality of life.  

Other rail transportation workers’ hours have been protected since 1907. 

Yardmaster Act is a Bipartisan Effort 

The Railroad Yardmaster Protection Act highlights the understanding that rail safety is, and must remain, a nonpolitical issue. Representatives Carbajal and Lawler, hailing from opposite coasts and different parties, are willing to set aside their differences to protect rail workers and the communities our trains pass through. This unity matters more than party lines. 

“I’m proud to join Rep. Carbajal in reintroducing the Railroad Yardmaster Protection Act, a commonsense, bipartisan bill that closes a long-overdue gap in rail safety policy,” said Representative Lawler. “Yardmasters are essential to the safe and smooth operation of our freight rail system, and it’s only right that they receive the same duty hour protections as other rail employees. This legislation is about protecting workers, improving safety, and ensuring our rail network continues to serve communities and commerce across the country effectively.” 
 
It is this union’s policy that safety is not a partisan issue.  We support any law or regulation that improves our lives. 

“It’s rare to see meaningful cooperation across today’s political aisle,” said SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson. “But this bill is a shining example of what can happen when the safety of our workforce and the public is put first.” 

Federal Laws Follow State Legislative Wins 

This federal push builds upon the work of Minnesota State Legislative Board and State Safety and Legislative Director Nick Katich. He helped Minnesota become the first state in the nation to enact HOS protections for yardmasters. That leadership demonstrates the feasibility and the urgency of regulating yardmaster schedules. It also provides a blueprint for national action. 

Alert Yardmasters Make Everyone Safer 

“Fatigue doesn’t just impact the yardmaster,” said Jared Cassity, Deputy National Safety and Legislative Director for SMART-TD. “It affects the entire crew, how well built our trains are when they hit the main lines, and the safety of the communities we serve. Rested yardmasters mean safer, smarter operations.” 

As detailed in SMART-TD’s previous reporting, yardmasters are often the unsung heroes on the front lines of rail labor. Their dedication deserves recognition, and more importantly, action.  

A Hopeful Path Forward 

SMART-TD calls on all members, allies, and lawmakers to support the Railroad Yardmaster Protection Act of 2025.  

This bill is a long-overdue correction to an unjust status quo. It represents unity, progress, and our unwavering commitment to protect every member. 

Stay informed and engaged as we work to support this measure as it advances through Congress. With teamwork, persistence, and solidarity, we can bring HOS fairness to the yardmasters who help keep America’s freight moving safely and keep us out of an occupied track.