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Our union’s success comes from within. 

After the election, I feel as though most of us went through a period of reflection. I know I did. It wasn’t so much because Trump won the presidency again, but what that election meant. It seems as though the working class of this country has lost its faith in government and wanted a change, and I honestly don’t blame them. With the increasing reach of corporate power, workers are desperate and hopeful for a change from the status quo. 

Throughout the last few decades, we have seen the reach of corporate interests increase and the consequences have had a negative influence on the working class. We have seen it glaringly on the rails. Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) has taken over most of the Class 1 railroads. We have seen longer trains, furloughed workers, decreased time for inspections, increased derailments and deferred maintenance, all while efficiency and customer satisfaction hit all-time lows. Besides a few improvements in the FRA like the two-person crew rule, it is really hard to think positively about the future of our rails. With the power of the rail lobby, it is difficult to have faith that things will get better. 

Some may think that Trump will help with these changes. Some may think the Democrats are the answer to positive change. I believe both of those groups are wrong. I truly hope that the Trump administration does decide to help correct the dangers of PSR or that future Democrats help make the difference, but I have a strong feeling that the only solution can be found in ourselves. 

Many union men and women have put faith in the politicians for far too long. We need to look inwards. We have allowed the corporate railroads and politics to divide us. I see it when a fellow union member criticizes his or her GC for “selling out” without giving the effort to speak to them about what has happened in the last few negotiations. I have seen it when a union member steams over something that wasn’t even in the actual agreement. I see it when members don’t attend union meetings and allow rumors to influence their opinions on officers. For far too long I have seen empty union halls and fractured solidarity. We are quick to blame anyone but ourselves. 

In the next five to ten years, we will have battles that will decide not only the safety of our profession, but the existence of our positions. We will not win those battles if we continue to allow these divisions amongst ourselves. I am not saying that we all have to vote for the same party or make every union meeting, but we need to inform ourselves on which representatives support our union and our jobs. We need to email our representatives about our issues. We need to make at least a few union meetings every year. We need to ask our officers about what is in our agreements before we vote. We need to take our grievances and questions to our officers rather than believing the first rumor we hear. 

We as union members need to look inwards for our solutions. Without solidarity, I fear the worst in our future. By staying with our status quo, we can only expect more of the same. As your brother, I ask that you attend a few union meetings this year. Watch out for your brothers and sisters. Stay informed on your agreements and encourage fellow members to do the same. Take initiative when you can and encourage your officers when you see them. We have more power than we realize, as long as we have solidarity. We can absolutely win now and in the future as long as we lean on each other. What will be your first step to making this unity possible? 

Brother Ekstedt is a 13-year SMART-TD conductor and an administrator of the popular “Fight for Two Person Crews” [ https://www.facebook.com/groups/368900777078500 ] Facebook group. 

Note From SMART News: Downloading the SMART App on your phone or personal device is a great way to help you become more involved in your union. It is a free app available on all major platforms. It not only keeps you up to date on your local’s meeting times and locations, but it also has contact information for all of your local and general committee officers. Additionally, it allows you to stay updated on industry and SMART-TD-specific news stories that affect all our members.  

You can download the SMART App for Apple Devices here or for Android Devices here.  

SMART-TD takes a stand against retaliation 

The SMART-TD Railroad Union lobbied OSHA and the FRA for stronger whistleblower protections at a virtual meeting on October 29th.  

“We are here to fight for our members,” said Jared Cassity, SMART-TD Deputy National Director of Safety and Legislative Affairs. “Railroad workers face harassment, demotion, and even firing for reporting unsafe conditions. This must stop, or it will continue to put both workers and the public at risk.” 

 OSHA is conducting an inquiry into America’s railroads, which included a request for public comments and the virtual meeting. 

SMART-TD was the only union to submit an official comment 

Multiple rail labor organizations were represented at the meeting; however, SMART-TD was the only union to submit an official comment.  

SMART-TD’s public comment reflects the reality that we face the threat of discipline or termination for reporting unsafe conditions or injuries at work. While the union can challenge these management decisions, many workers will cover up injuries or lie about incidents to protect themselves. 

Greg Hynes, SMART-TD National Director of Safety and Legislative Affairs, explained, “The culture of intimidation has been allowed to continue for too long. We need stronger protections for those who report safety issues.” 

Misuse of “operational testing” as a punitive tool 

A key issue identified by our members is the misuse of “operational testing,” where managers observe workers to enforce safety rules. The use of drones and covert surveillance, where managers “supervise” with binoculars from concealed locations, is justified by the railroads as ensuring safety. Such observations are all too often used to intimidate and punish workers who encounter safety issues or to deflect liability if there is an injury. 

Stronger protections for whistleblowers are a priority for all of us. “We must hold the railroads accountable,” said Hynes. “Workers must be able to report safety violations without fear of losing their jobs.” 

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Texas 2025 Regional Training, Registration Now Open! 

  • Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dallas, Near the Galleria 
  • Dates: March 10-13, 2025 (S&T: March 10-14) 
  • Room Rate: $141/night 
  • Registration Fee: $75 

The Dallas RTS will begin on Monday, March 10, 2025, with an evening Welcome Reception. The training will cover topics such as local governance, the roles and responsibilities of local presidents, secretaries, treasurers, legislative representatives, and local chairpersons in member advocacy, an overview of the SMART Constitution, and other key subjects. 

For a detailed meeting agenda, please visit the Meetings page via the SMART Union mobile app. 

We look forward to seeing you in Dallas! 

Space in some of the training tracks is limited and will be filled on a first-come first-served basis. Register early. 

Registration closes on March 3, 2025, and there will be no onsite registration available.  

To Register for Classes: RTS Registration ► 
To Book Your Hotel Reservation: Hotel Reservation Link ► 

Please note: Attendees are responsible for making their hotel reservations. 

For more information, contact Nick Torres in the SMART-TD office at 216-227-5269 or by email at ntorres@smart-union.org. 

Timebooks Arriving Soon

The 2025 timebooks will begin shipping to Secretary & Treasurers who requested them during the week of November 25th. This timing ensures there is ample opportunity to distribute them to members before the new year.

A Tradition That Serves Both Rail and Bus Locals

These timebooks are an essential resource for both our rail and bus locals, supporting members in their daily work. We know many of our members use timebooks they get from other sources, or use digital records; however, our union continues the time-honored tradition of providing them to ensure every member has access to this tool. This tradition dates back to our years as the United Transportation Union (UTU) and beyond. These books play a crucial role in holding managers accountable and ensuring that agreements are fairly enforced across all transportation crafts. Whether on the railroads or in the bus industry, these timebooks are vital tools for our members’ protection and for maintaining the standards of our contracts.

Why Physical Timebooks Remain Important

While the idea of creating a digital timebook has been considered, we know that many of our members work in environments where the use of electronic devices is restricted by rules from railroads, transit agencies, or the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). For this reason, the physical timebook remains the most effective option. It is a time-tested tool that’s easy to carry, use, and access when on the job.

Be on the Lookout for Timebook Delivery

Please stay alert for the delivery of your timebooks. If they do not arrive within a reasonable timeframe, local Secretary & Treasurers should contact Nick Torres to arrange for replacements. If your local did not initially request timebooks but would like to provide them to members, Brother Torres is also the point of contact. New orders are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Contact Information for Timebook Requests:

Nick Torres
Email: ntorres@smart-union.org
Phone: (216) 227-5269

SMART-TD is pleased to announce the 2025 Regional Training Seminars (RTS) schedule. These seminars provide local officers with essential tools and skills to serve our members effectively. Since its introduction in 2020, RTS has strengthened union leadership and fostered valuable connections across all levels of SMART-TD.

2025 RTS Dates and Locations

  • Dallas, TX: March 10-13 (S&T: March 10-14)
    DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dallas Near the Galleria
    Room Rate: $141/night | Registration Fee: $75
  • Denver, CO: June 23-26 (S&T: June 23-27)
    DoubleTree by Hilton Denver Hotel
    Room Rate: $159/night | Registration Fee: $75
  • Anaheim, CA: September 8-11 (S&T: September 8-12)
    Hotel FERA Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton
    Room Rate: $159/night | Registration Fee: $75
  • Atlanta, GA: October 27-30 (S&T: October 27-31)
    Marriott Atlanta Buckhead
    Room Rate: $159/night | Registration Fee: $75

Why Attend An RTS?

RTS seminars have improved success rates in appeals and claims by equipping local officers with the latest training and resources. These sessions prepare leaders to navigate the challenges of today’s labor environment confidently.

Who Should Attend?

All local officers are encouraged to participate. Sessions are tailored for Local Presidents, Local Chairpersons, Secretary and Treasurers, Safety and Legislative Representatives, and others. Officers from all crafts, including Bus, Passenger Rail, and Freight Rail, will benefit from this training.

Prepare To Register

Registration for the Dallas RTS opens soon. Check our website, emails, and social media for updates.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your leadership and contribute to SMART-TD’s success in 2025!

North Darby, PA – November 20, 2024 – After intense negotiations, SMART-TD Local 1594 has reached a tentative agreement (TA) with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).  

The agreement includes critical safety improvements and a wage increase, addressing longstanding concerns raised by the union over worker protection and security measures for transit operators. This agreement is a major step forward for the roughly 350 members of Local 1594, who stood firm throughout the negotiations. 

Anthony Petty, General Chairperson and SMART-TD Alternate Vice President of the Bus Department led the negotiations for Local 1594.  

“When SEPTA told us they had no budget for bulletproof glass enclosures, de-escalation training for our members, or to increase security and police presence on our buses and trolleys, that wasn’t just an insult—it was a direct threat to the safety of my union family,” said Petty. “You might get away with that somewhere else, but not here in Philadelphia. We won’t stand for it, and today’s agreement is a testament to that.” 

On Saturday, November 16, in response to SEPTA’s refusal to improve security or agree to a pay increase in 2025, the members of Local 1594 voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike. This vote, combined with the strategic collaboration between Local 1594 and Transportation Workers Union (TWU) Local 234, was a turning point in the negotiations. Petty and his team were able to resume negotiation alongside the TWU. 

“I want to take a moment to thank the leadership of TWU Local 234 and their President, Brian Pollitt,” Petty stated. “We couldn’t have reached this agreement without their tireless effort and solidarity. Together, we fought for the safety and dignity of our members, and today we’re seeing the results of that work.” 

Under the terms of the tentative agreement, SEPTA has committed to installing bulletproof glass full enclosures around operators’ workstations on eight buses as part of a pilot project. There is also a commitment to extend these installations to more buses, based on feedback from operators. Additionally, the agreement includes a 5% General Wage Increase (GWI), helping to address the financial needs of SEPTA’s workforce. 

“I’m proud of the leadership at Local 1594 for staying strong and staying focused throughout this process,” Petty added. “Our members showed up every day with one goal: to serve the public in Philadelphia while keeping each other and our passengers safe. This was always about our members and their dignity, and today’s victory is because of their courage.” 

The agreement also marks a significant milestone for Petty, who, as a newly elected national officer with the SMART-TD Transit Union, is learning to advocate for transit members across the country. 

“This process has been a valuable learning experience for me, I want to thank SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson, and VP’s Alvy Hughes and James Sandoval for their assistance on this. These three national officers answered my phone calls every day and supported me through this whole process. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned from them to help all our bus members nationwide,” Petty explained. “We’re happy to have reached this agreement but make no mistake— we are staying on offense. Whether it’s in Philadelphia or from Charlotte, NC to Los Angeles, CA, we are going to keep pushing for the safety and dignity of transit workers.” 

SMART-TD Local 1594 and its leadership are grateful for SEPTA’s willingness to continue negotiations until an agreement was reached.  

“We’re proud of our members,” Petty concluded. “You’ve proven time and time again that you are committed to the safety of your coworkers and the communities you serve. You are the backbone of this system, and we will continue to fight for your protection and dignity.” 

The tentative agreement is subject to ratification by the union membership. 

The SMART-TD Safety and Legislative Boards for the state of Virginia and Washington D.C. have voluntarily merged. This decision, voted into effect by both boards on November 15, will streamline operations and create a more unified voice at local, state, and federal levels. 

Ronnie Hobbs, Virginia’s current State Legislative Director, will lead the combined body. Jarad Jackson, D.C.’s Safety and Legislative Director, will serve as Vice Chairperson for Passenger Rail Service, while Ray Miller, Virginia’s Alternate Legislative Director, becomes Vice Chairperson for Freight Rail Service. 

Internal union merger will improve collective power 

Brother Hobbs told SMART News, “By pooling resources, the leadership team is better equipped to advocate in Richmond, the D.C. Mayor’s office, and on Capitol Hill.”  

Willie Bates, former SLD for D.C.  Jarad Jackson, Vice Chairperson of Passenger Service of Virginia/D.C. Ronnie Hobbs Safety Legislative Director Virginia/D.C

Hobbs went on to say, “This merger strengthens our collective power. Together, we’ll be more effective in advocating for the issues that matter most to our members. The new structure marks a stronger, more cohesive effort to address the region’s pressing challenges.” 

Safety for Amtrak conductors remains a key priority 

The merger addresses member challenges in Virginia and D.C., where many activities span the boundary between the two regions. Combining the boards will focus resources and legislative activities while spending fewer resources coordinating efforts. We can act as one because we are one. 

Safety remains their top priority, with a focus on addressing staffing shortages at Amtrak’s Union Station, where conductors are often required to work without an Assistant Conductor.  

We are asking for the help of all our members.  We are disturbed to report that one of our own members, a Metro bus operator in Los Angeles, CA, was shot and critically injured on Saturday morning. At the time of writing our sister is in grave condition, and we stand with her and her loved ones during this difficult time. 

If you have any information about the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Dorian Holt, or can help find him, we urge you to step up and help. We are not asking anyone to put themselves in harm’s way, but if you have any information that could lead to him facing justice for this attack, please contact the Los Angeles Police Department. 

Call LAPD’s Northeast Station at 323-561-3211, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org [ https://www.lacrimestoppers.org ]. 

Dorian Holt, 45, is being sought by the Los Angeles Police Department. Police photos released Nov. 16, 2024. 

SMART-TD General Chairperson, John Ellis of GC 875 told SMART News that “Authorities continue to hunt for the perpetrator who still remains at large. All Operators must continue to be vigilant and if this individual is observed, do not take any risks. But, notify the authorities immediately.” 

Brother Ellis went on to say that he wants every member of GC 875, and of SMART-TD in California to know, “If you need help with domestic violence in California, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233). Additionally, there are local organizations in California that provide comprehensive support services.”  

This senseless act of violence, which took place during a layover in Hollywood, is being investigated as a domestic dispute.  We will not tolerate any act of aggression in our workplace and will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.  

Our sister, who was the victim of this crime, is a member of SMART-TD Local 1564 (Los Angeles, CA). Her Local Chairperson, Andy Carter, told SMART News that he knows the victim personally and wants all of us to know that “She has a beautiful personality, and her Co-workers and Management are all praying for her speedy recovery.” 

We stand united to protect our own and ensure that those who commit violent acts are held accountable. Our thoughts stay with our injured sister, and we will continue to support her recovery. 

The life of Joyce Mendoza has been intricately intertwined with the railroad industry. 

For 24 years, Joyce has called South Portland, Maine, home. She lives just a mile from Rigby Yard—a vital transportation hub. This neighborhood, established in 1923, was built to accommodate railroad workers.  

John Dwight McMillen’s railroad journey 

John McMillen (Joyce’s Father) worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad in the Wellsville, Ohio, area during the 1940s and early 1950s. During World War II he was part of a crew that transported troops, often working long, grueling shifts with little time for rest. Joyce fondly remembers her father’s stories of his demanding work, including a harrowing experience of nearly sleepwalking off a moving train due to sheer exhaustion—a testament to the intense nature of his job. His stories also included lighter moments, such as learning to appreciate huevos rancheros and other foods that were introduced to him by railroad workers with different backgrounds. 

Joyce’s continued commitment to rail safety 

Today, Joyce champions railroad safety through her involvement with the SMART-TD railroad union in Maine/New Hampshire, focusing on safety concerns related to CSX’s proposed use of remote-control technology in Rigby Yard. 

Donation of more than an heirloom 

In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude and honor, Joyce donated her father’s railroad lantern—an artifact of his dedicated service—to our union’s collection of historical artifacts. The lantern is on display in SMART-TD’s headquarters in Independence, Ohio. This lantern symbolizes the hard work and commitment of railroad workers like John McMillen and will serve as a cherished reminder of the sacrifices and dedication of past and present railroad workers.  

We extend our sincerest thanks to Joyce Mendoza for her contribution and for her unwavering support of our union’s mission to improve the safety and well-being of our members and the communities in which we serve. 

Lansing, MI — A major win for railroad workers and public safety advocates came this week as the Michigan Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed Senate Bill 100 (SB 100) with a 7-2 vote. The bill, which mandates a minimum two-person crew on freight trains operating in Michigan, will now move to the full Senate. 

SB 100, introduced by Senator Erika Geiss (D-1st District) and supported by the SMART-TD union, aims to improve railroad safety and working conditions. Geiss, who chairs the committee, led the effort, with all six Democratic committee members voting in favor, joined by Republican Senator Edward McBroom (R-38th District). 

Don Roach, SMART-TD Michigan State Safety and Legislative Director, praised McBroom for his bipartisan support, emphasizing the importance of safety over politics. Roach also highlighted the growing need for state-level protections due to legal challenges to federal two-person crew regulations. 

Michigan State Senator and Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Erika Geiss, Michigan State Legislative Director, Don Roach, and Michigan State Senator and Co-sponsor of SB 100, Stephanie Chang,

SB 100 addresses concerns over railroads seeking to reduce crew sizes, a practice critics argue jeopardizes both worker safety and community well-being. The bill’s passage marks a significant step forward for Michigan’s efforts to ensure safer, more accountable railroad operations. 

Supporters are hopeful the full Senate will pass the bill and send it to the Michigan House for further consideration. “This is a victory for rail workers, public safety, and Michigan families,” Roach said. “We’ll keep pushing to make sure this legislation becomes law.”