New Jersey Leads with Rail Safey Law

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2026

SMART-TD Celebrates as Governor Murphy Signs Historic Railroad Safety Law on Final Day in Office

Newark, NJ — As crowds gathered in Newark today to witness the swearing-in of Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill, Governor Phil Murphy delivered one final, meaningful act of leadership for New Jersey’s working families by signing into law a landmark railroad safety bill that will bring significant new protections to railroaders, passengers, and communities across the state.

The legislation, A-4460/S-3389, was championed by members of the SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) and advanced with overwhelming bipartisan support in the State Legislature. It enacts enhanced safety reporting, strengthens oversight of railroad infrastructure, mandates modern detection technologies, and expands the role of labor representation in derailment and accident investigations. Its strict two-person crew (2-PC) requirements reflect real-world operating conditions and directly address long-standing safety concerns raised by rail workers.

SMART-TD celebrates the historic safety advancements achieved in this bill and the leadership shown by Governor Murphy in signing it into law as part of his final official acts as governor. This legislation stands as one of the most consequential rail safety victories in recent history and reinforces New Jersey’s role as a national leader in transportation safety and worker protections.

“This bill is yet another shining example of what New Jersey’s working families have come to expect from Governor Phil Murphy,” said SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson. “For eight years, Governor Murphy has consistently lifted up the middle class and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with working people across the state. From being the first governor in the nation to sign protections for bus and passenger rail members against assault on the job, to delivering this critical rail safety legislation on his final day in office, he has shown what it truly means to be ‘With Us.’ His leadership, friendship, and advocacy have never been taken for granted, and they are always deeply appreciated.”

SMART-TD’s National Safety & Legislative Director Jared Cassityemphasized the broader impact of the legislation.

“This law represents a historic step forward for rail safety, and it would not have happened without the unified efforts of our membership, legislative champions, and safety advocates across New Jersey,” Cassity said. “By institutionalizing modern safety practices and empowering workers and communities with stronger protections, this legislation will save lives and set a powerful example for other states to follow.”

Ron Sabol, SMART-TD’s longtime New Jersey State Safety and Legislative Directorwhose leadership was instrumental in guiding the bill through the legislature, reflected on both the safety gains achieved and Governor Murphy’s enduring support of the union.

“This is a proud day for railroaders, for our families, and for the communities we serve,” said Sabol. “This legislation delivers meaningful safety improvements for railroad employees, passengers, and communities across New Jersey. We are deeply grateful to Governor Murphy for his leadership and his unwavering commitment to making our state safer. From day one, he has understood that stronger safety standards protect workers and the public alike, and his consistent support for SMART-TD over two terms has made a lasting difference. That legacy will endure well beyond today.”

SMART-TD applauds Governor Murphy for his vision, leadership, and lifetime commitment to New Jersey’s working families, and looks forward to working with Governor-Elect Sherrill and incoming legislative leaders to continue advancing rail safety and worker protections in the years ahead.

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For more information or to connect with SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson or a member of his leadership team, please contact:
Dan Banks
dbanks@smart-union.org 
(216) 227-5283 (Office) 
(330) 322-5949 (Cell) 

Alyssa Hansen
alyssa.hansen@smart-union.org