On August 1, 2025, Special Board of Adjustment No. 1208 issued an award, which set the framework for final resolution of on-property contract negotiations at Union Pacific as were required by our most recent 2022 National Agreement, intended to address rest days, quality of life, and certain pool and extra board rules. Since we could not reach a voluntary agreement with UP, these issues were mandated to go to final and binding arbitration.
It is important to understand that SBA 1208 merely sets the basic framework for what our final on-property agreements will say. Our General Committees are still in talks with UP to iron out those details. In accordance with the award’s findings, this process requires written, mutually agreed upon questions and answers for interpretations within the award, along with an implementation process. The award also states that the arbitrator will maintain jurisdiction over interpretation and implementation matters for another 6 months. We anticipate that this process will take several weeks or even months to reach a conclusion wherein the full extent of the award will be implemented.
Understandably, this has led to some uncertainty and speculation among our UP members. In response, the involved General Chairpersons distributed information, including fact sheets, to all of our affected Locals. We have also been responsive to individual members’ concerns whenever they have reached out. Despite these efforts, misinformation and disinformation is continuing to spread.
In order to help determine fact from fiction, and truth from lies, we have set up a dedicated email address for Union Pacific members who still have questions about this award and the implementation process. We encourage our members to get the facts straight from the source, rather than listening to hearsay, rumors, or flat-out lies from bad faith actors looking to capitalize on this inherent and temporary uncertainty.
Questions, comments, and concerns may be submitted to SBA1208@smart-union.org. Our members’ questions are particularly valuable, as they may be included in the required written Q&A’s that are currently being compiled.
All SMART-TD members will receive a response!
On August 11, SMART-TD was proud to be represented at the reopening of the Natick Center train station in Massachusetts, marking a major step forward in making public transit more accessible for all. The state-funded renovation added features to better serve riders with physical disabilities, improving safety, comfort, and convenience.
When the Governor and Lieutenant Governor hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony, SMART-TD’s New England Safety and Legislative Director Dave Stevenson and SMART-TD Local 898 Local Chairperson and Assistant Chair of the BTAPS Committee Cole Czub were invited to join the celebration. Their presence highlighted the important role our union plays in working with state leaders on rail and transit issues.
For MBTA and Keolis members, these improvements not only serve the public but also help to grow ridership, which strengthens the long-term stability of our jobs. The event was also a clear sign that in Massachusetts, when decision-makers talk about railroads, they turn to SMART-TD as a trusted partner and source of expertise.
We thank Brothers Stevenson, Czub, and the entire New England Legislative Board for their dedication and the impact they are making on behalf of SMART-TD members across the region.
SMART-TD New England SLD Dave Stevenson, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, Chairperson of SMART-TD Local 898 Cole Czub,
Last month, Steve Forbes published a hit piece in the famous Forbes Magazine about SMART-TD. He penned his editorial without verifying any of his “facts” with SMART-TD, which could explain how and why he got everything wrong. From our finances to our mission, this magazine, made famous by publishing love letters about corporate elites, went out of its way to “put us in our place.” He wasn’t after facts; he was trying to derail our progress on behalf of his Wall Street buddies and Corporate Railroads.
It didn’t work.
President Ferguson responded, calling out every lie, distortion, and insult in Forbes’ editorial. Brother Ferguson’s office submitted that rebuttal to Forbes five days ago, demanding equal placement and a factual correction.
Forbes hasn’t responded, and we’re not going to hold our breath. We assume that they made up their minds before hearing any evidence, and we expect them to stick with their policy of neglecting reason or professional ethics as they pursue their goal to take us down.
So we’re appealing—not to Forbes, but to the American public. Perhaps there are a few real journalists left who care about truth, safety, and the plight of America’s working families. If Forbes wants a fight, that’s fine. Just like the railroads and bus companies, he’s welcome to FAFO.
Read President Ferguson’s full takedown below, which today, Monday, July 28, 2025, was shared with media outlets across the country.
Engineer Trainee, John Hedgepeth of SMART-TD Local 490 is being hailed as a hero for his quick-thinking and selfless actions during a catastrophic derailment involving Norfolk Southern trains in Indiana.
Brother Hedgepeth acted instinctively to save the life of his engineer by moving him clear of a locomotive ladder just seconds before molten sulfur from a derailed train engulfed their position.
He then dove from the nose of his engine to try to get himself clear from the fallout of the derailment. Though his actions undoubtedly saved his life and that of his engineer, Brother Hedgepeth was covered in molten sulfur from one of the derailed cars.
He was left with third-degree burns covering a significant portion of his body, along with a broken rib. He likely faces a long road to recovery, requiring travel to the nearest burn treatment center located over 150 miles away in Indianapolis.
Brother John Hedgepeth needs our support during his road to healing
Hedgepeth, a U.S. Marine with 13 years of railroad experience, and his family are in urgent need of support. A fundraiser has been set up by his brothers in Local 490 to assist them during this incredibly difficult time.
Earlier today, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 1, better known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, by a narrow 51–50 margin, with Vice President JD Vance casting the deciding vote.
The legislation offers a tax exemption on overtime earnings, a move that benefits many American workers. However, despite advocacy and proposed fixes, the bill does not extend this benefit to employees covered by the Railway Labor Act, AKA railroaders.
Ahead of the vote, SMART-TD collaborated with Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) to draft Amendment 2316, which would have extended the overtime tax break to rail and aviation workers. In just 24 hours, more than 4,300 SMART-TD members took action, sending messages to their Senators urging support for the amendment. That response exemplifies the unity and strength of our membership.
Despite this strong show of support, Amendment 2316 was not considered during debate. Out of the 642 amendments submitted, only 43 were brought to the floor, and ours was not one of them.
Standing Firm in the Fight for Fairness
“This isn’t over,” said SMART-TD National Legislative Director Jared Cassity. “If the rest of the blue-collar workforce gets relief on overtime taxes, so should rail workers. Our jobs are no less demanding, and we should be treated with equal respect.”
Cassity has already begun the process of turning the proposed amendment into a stand-alone bill. Although collaboration with other rail unions is still in progress, efforts are underway to identify a member of Congress willing to sponsor the bill.
“Our members sacrifice holidays, family time, and weekends to keep this country running. Excluding them from a policy aimed at easing the burden on working Americans is more than disheartening,” Cassity continued. “But we’re not walking away from this. We’ll keep pushing until our voices are heard.”
What Comes Next
SMART-TD will continue advocating for overtime tax fairness for rail workers and will work to build momentum for new legislation. The incredible response from members is a powerful reminder that this is worth fighting for. If you joined the effort yesterday, thank you. If you didn’t, get ready, because we’ll need you in the days ahead. The next round starts now.
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.
Arkansas & Missouri Begins a New Chapter with SMART-TD
SMART-TD welcomes our newest brothers and sisters from the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad (A&M) into our union family. For the first time in this property’s history, both the Transportation and Engine craft and the Maintenance of Way craft voted overwhelmingly to join SMART-TD.
SMART-TD Organizer Andy Goeckner led the process.
“These are committed professionals who have worked tirelessly under difficult conditions for years,” said Goeckner. “They deserve the opportunity to build a better future. One where their efforts are recognized, their time is respected, and their voices matter.”
Their first Collective Bargaining Agreement
Their milestone marks a powerful step forward, as these newest members have never enjoyed the protections of a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
For many non-union properties, foundational labor protections like overtime pay, job security, and fair leave policies are typically out of reach until they get organized and negotiate an agreement. With union representation, these workers can claim the protections and respect they deserve.
The decision to join SMART-TD followed months of conversations and solidarity-building among A&M’s workforce.
SMART-TD organizers help new locals secure themselves
This is the fifth SMART-TD railroad property that Goeckner has successfully organized, in addition to playing a key role in ten other winning campaigns. His dedication makes both the properties he supports and our collective union stronger.
Goeckner was joined by SMART-TD’s General Chairpersons Scott Chelette and Joe Cornelius. Together, they hosted informational town halls and engaged directly with the A&M crews. They provided clarity and encouragement during an important and uncertain time.
Bargaining Begins
With the organizing vote behind us, our shared focus turns to securing a strong first contract. SMART-TD has already started to fight for a CBA that reflects the professionalism and value of our new members. To all our new brothers and sisters from A&M: Welcome to SMART-TD. We’re honored to have you with us and we look forward to proving why life is better in a union, especially in SMART-TD.
With deep sorrow and heartfelt respect, SMART-TD mourns the untimely passing of Brother Darryl Lennell Redmon, General Chairperson of GO-STU First Student 1704 (Kansas City, MO) who departed this life on May 26, 2025, at the age of 73.
A Leader of Principle and Compassion
Brother Redmon’s leadership style was characterized by empathy and respect for the voices of his fellow members. Whether representing operators at the bargaining table or encouraging member participation through grassroots outreach, he led with conviction and compassion. As noted by Sister Ethel Maze, Vice Chairperson of the General Committee and President of Local 1704:
“Mr. Redmon devoted himself fully to the betterment of our Local. He stayed late for meetings, passed out flyers to encourage membership involvement, and continuously inspired others through his dedication and tireless efforts. His commitment to our union and its members was unwavering.
Brother Redmon was truly one of a kind. His leadership, integrity and presence will be profoundly missed by all of us at Local 1704.”
A Calling, Not Just a Career
Though his tenure with our union was brief, the depth of his impact will be felt for years to come through the contracts he helped shape, the lives he touched, and the unwavering example of servant leadership he provided.
Brother Redmon joined SMART-TD in September 2022 as a school bus operator in Kansas City, Missouri. From the outset, his clarity of purpose and passion for advocating on behalf of working people set him apart. Within a year, he was elected Vice President of Local 1704, and in January 2024, he was elevated to General Chairperson, a role he embraced with humility, integrity, and a relentless drive to uplift his union family.
Outside his union roles, Brother Redmon lived a life defined by service. He was known for his love of family, dedication to the community and profound faith.
Honoring His Life and Work
Brother Redmon’s passing is a loss not only for Local 1704 but for the entire SMART-TD family. He is survived by his five beloved children, grandchildren, siblings, his dear special friend Angela Strass, and a host of family members, friends, and colleagues who all have our deepest sympathies. His devotion to his family and faith was as strong as his commitment to his union, and he carried both with grace and honor.
As we mourn, we also recommit ourselves to the mission that Brother Redmon lived every day: to protect, uplift, and unite each other through solidarity and service. His legacy will live on in every contract won, every member supported, and every child safely brought home by the operators he so passionately represented.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Redmon family and the entire Local 1704 community. May we continue to honor our brother’s life not just in memory, but in action.
Visitation for Brother Redmon will be held at Mount Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home (10507 Holmes Rd. Kansas City, MO 64131, on Thursday, June 5 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The funeral service will be held the following morning from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, June 6, at the Sheffield Family Life Center Assemblies Of God (5700 Winner Rd. Kansas City, MO 64127).
Brother Redmon’s Graveside Committal will be held at Mount Moriah Cemetery (10507 Holmes Rd. Kansas City, MO 64131, at 12:30-12:45 following the funeral service.
MOBILE, AL — May 9, 2025 — The members of SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) Local 598 taught the Alabama Port Authority what solidarity is all about. 598 resisted efforts to divide and conquer to secure an agreement that ensures major gains in wages, benefits, and crew consist protections. They overwhelmingly ratified their hard-fought tentative agreement (TA).
Workers stand up for the resources needed to do a good job
The negotiation journey began in January 2023 when both sides served Section 6 notices. While SMART-TD sought fair wage increases, quality-of-life improvements, and equitable health and welfare provisions, the Port Authority sought to eliminate the helper positions from train crews, a direct threat to safety and job security.
Local 598, led by veteran Local Chairperson Billy Johns and Vice Local Chairman Frank Normand, stood firm. Johns, a 22-year employee of the State Docks, and his members knew that their three-person crews were required to deliver the highly responsive, customer-focused service the docks are known for.
“We’re not like other railroads,” said Johns. “We don’t jump on a train and go 200 miles. We make our living providing white glove service to our customers.”
Of equal significance, Local 598 members were clear that they would not accept any adjustments to their existing Crew Consist. This unwavering position (voiced directly from the rank and file to the carrier) was a defining moment in the negotiations and a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy.
The transfer of member sentiment from the crew room to the boardroom is what every union advocate should strive for.
Uniting in the face of division, wage disparity erased
Management attempted to exploit a wage disparity between pre-2008 and post-2008 employees, proposing incentives to divide the membership. 598 refused to take the bait and instead demanded pay equity across the board.
“They tried to buy us off to cut the Helper,” explained member Herbert Bohannon, “but it would hurt us all in the long run when we started losing customers. We know where our bread is buttered. And that is customer service.”
Rather than fracture, the local emerged more unified than ever, a fact that surprised and ultimately pressured their employer. “This wasn’t an easy process,” said Johns. “The company wanted our members to turn on each other. The opposite happened.”
Union moves stalled talks forward, brings solutions to the table
After six months of stalled talks, SMART-TD forced the issue by invoking mediation under the Railway Labor Act. With assistance from SMART-TD Vice President Joe Lopez and unwavering advocacy from General Chairperson Tommy Gholson (GCA-898), the union kept pressing with new proposals until they emerged with a landmark TA nearly a year later.
Key provisions include:
18% General Wage Increase (GWI)
Adoption of the National Health and Welfare Plan, capped at 12% of carrier costs
Preservation of Helper Positions
No concessions in existing work rules
“This agreement is not only a victory for its contents, but for the journey we took,” said Gholson. “The carrier learned a lot about unionism and the Railway Labor Act. And they learned that our members still have a voice, and they aren’t afraid to use it.”
Union officers, backed by membership, controlled the negotiations
Praise for Local 598’s leadership poured in from all sides. “Billy Johns isn’t a big guy in stature,” said Bohannon, “but make no mistake about it, he is a warrior. I take a lot of pride in him, and the guys in this crew room do too.”
Gholson echoed that sentiment, noting how Johns and Bohannon “never changed their outlook” and “fought vigorously to preserve the helper positions because they knew the impact on safety and well-being. Their stance was also firm because they were there representing all the members of Local 598. They knew what the crew base wanted, and they weren’t coming home without it.”
In the heat of mediation meetings (including high-stakes sessions in Chicago), Gholson made it clear that SMART-TD would not back down. “Let’s just say,” said Johns, “by the end of the meeting, it wasn’t hard to tell who was in charge of the room.”
The Road Ahead
With this new agreement ratified, Local 598 has not only secured a better future for its current members but has also set a powerful example of unity, resolve, and effective unionism. The Local has grown in unity over the course of this bargaining round, with each challenge strengthening their resolve and deepening solidarity. As Gholson put it: “This crew base didn’t just negotiate a contract. They taught the company a lesson in solidarity. They stuck together, and they won.”
10/28/1968 – 5/1/2025
Donald (Don) H. Wolff II, age 56, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, leadership, and loyalty. GO-851 General Chairperson Joe Bennett remembered Don as “a family man who loved his family deeply. He was a man’s man, with an unprecedented level of character. He was one of those guys who did the right thing even when nobody was looking.”
A dedicated railroad professional, Don devoted nearly two decades of his life to the Florida East Coast Railroad, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues across the industry.
Don proudly served SMART-TD Local 903, first as Vice Local Chairperson from 2014 to 2021, and then as Local Chairperson from 2021 until his passing. He also served as a Trustee. In these roles, he represented Trainmen, Enginemen, and Yardmasters with unwavering commitment. He was a steadfast advocate for his brothers and sisters in the rail labor community, known for his strength of character and an unshakable sense of justice.
A passionate fan of college football, Don could often be found cheering on his beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers. His pride in the team reflected his own values: loyalty, resilience, and heart.
Don’s life and contributions will be celebrated on Saturday, May 10, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 12200 McCormick Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225. Friends, family, coworkers, and all who were touched by his spirit are welcome to attend and asked to wear Cornhusker red and white to honor the memory of a man who gave so much to his community. The family encourages storytelling and picture sharing of their beloved Don.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that his loved ones consider donating to Operation Barnabas or Grace Lutheran School.
Operation Barnabas is a charity near and dear to Don’s heart. Focusing on supporting Veterans based on 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 through recreation and therapy.
Donations to Grace Lutheran School, will aid the new Early Childhood playground and programs. His loved ones greatly appreciate all your support.
Brother Wolf will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the causes he championed, and the example he set.
