Category: Front Page — TD
Transportation-oriented posts to appear on the front page of the main site and in news feeds.
2026 Railroad Retirement and Unemployment Insurance Tax Changes
While the tax rates remain unchanged, the income limits for Tier I and Tier II retirement taxes will rise slightly in 2026. Tier I will be $184,500, while Tier II increases to $137,100. Read on to see how the updated compensation limits, Medicare thresholds, and unemployment insurance rates will affect your paychecks in the year ahead.
SMART General President Michael Coleman praises SMART-TD agreement with Union Pacific, congratulates members on ratification
SMART General President Michael Coleman's statement on the agreement ratified by SMART-TD members working on Union Pacific properties.
SMART-TD Members on UP Properties Ratify Five-Year Agreement
Members working on Union Pacific properties have overwhelmingly ratified a five-year agreement, with a vast majority voting “yes” for substantial wage increases, enhanced benefits, and powerful new protections that resolve longstanding issues. Read on to see how this strong contract victory will deliver real gains in pay, quality of life, and fairness for SMART-TD’s UP membership over the next five years.
Railroader’s Son to Perform at Carnegie Hall
“A.J.” Hamburger Jr. will take the stage at the legendary Carnegie Hall in New York City as part of the National Honors Bands Performance Series. A.J. is the son of BNSF conductor and SMART-TD Local 934 (Alliance, Nebraska) Vice Local Chairperson Aaron Hamburger. On February 8, 2026, A.J. will join only 350 students out of more than 10,000 applicants worldwide. Read on to learn more about this accomplishment.
Union Members Head to College Thanks to Tuition Benefit
As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, remember that a flexible and affordable way to reach your higher education goals is on the menu. Launched earlier this year, the Union College Benefit program has become a popular option for SMART-TD union members and their families. Read on to learn how you can enroll today.
Rail Trespassing and Suicide Fatalities Up 70%
Trespasser and suicide-related incidents now account for 50 percent of all transit-related fatalities reported in 2024. Between 2016 and 2024, these events have risen sharply, with major incidents up 71 percent, fatalities up 70 percent, and injuries up 65 percent. The Federal Transit Administration has issued new recommendations for transit agencies to confront this crisis, along with resources for railroaders who are forced to contend with the aftermath of these incidents.
New Jersey Governor-Elect Sherrill Names SMART-TD’s Ron Sabol to Transition Team
Many public officials like having unions around to better understand the real-world issues affecting working families, but New Jersey Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill wants us around when it’s time to form public policy, too. Sherrill has appointed SMART-TD New Jersey/Delaware Safety and Legislative Director Ron Sabol to her transition team, acknowledging the value of the hands, minds, and experience represented by the men and women who move freight, passengers, and communities safely across New Jersey. Read on to learn more about Sabol's appointment and what it means for all of us.
Help the McLucas Family After Fire Destroys Their Home
On November 15, Brother Brian McLucas (Local 1190) received a devastating phone call: his house was on fire, and the situation was a total loss. His wife and two young daughters were able to escape safely but now face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and their home during the holiday season. Read on to learn how you can help our union brother.