Keeping your timebook current can be a deciding factor in winning claims, defending unfair discipline and establishing the truth when company records conveniently disappear. Read on to see how one member’s timebook changed the outcome of a life-altering injury case. Free of charge for every member, timebooks remain one of the strongest protections you have on the job.
On December 16, 2025, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act (NITA) into law, ensuring that Chicago’s transit systems are guaranteed the funding they need to avoid service and job cuts. SMART-TD was invited to attend the signing and was instrumental in passing this critical legislation. Read on to learn more about another legislative win for our union.
A historic, first-of-its-kind rail safety bill has passed both chambers of the New Jersey Legislature and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature! Read on to see more on the major protections like maximum train length limits and strict two-person crew requirements for freight rail workers.
A CSX conductor and single mother was seriously injured in a head-on collision while reporting for duty, leaving her facing a long and difficult road to recovery. Read on to see how union solidarity is coming together to support one of our own and how you can help make a difference for her and her daughter.
"I want to wish you and your families a very happy holiday season. No matter what you celebrate — Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or your own tradition — this is a special time of year. I hope each and every one of you gets the chance to enjoy time with family and friends: observing your family traditions, cherishing the ability to see loved ones, and reflecting on the things we all value as working people."
A recent Safety Alert from the Switching Operations Fatality Analysis (SOFA) Working Group warns railroad workers of the persistent and deadly risks in switching operations. Read on to see how the alert reinforces shared responsibility, lessons learned from more than 210 switching-related deaths, and why we all need to recommit to safety practices to ensure everyone makes it home safely.
American Journey Financial Life (AJFL) will award 100 scholarships in 2026. Applications from the children and grandchildren of AJFL policyholders will be accepted between January 15 and March 31, 2026. Read on for eligibility requirements and application details.
Thanks to decisive action at the federal level, the safety of our cross-border freight rail operations is expected to see some significant changes. Read on to learn what this means for the future of rail safety and accountability.
We are excited to announce the dates for our 2026 Regional Training Seminars! Since 2020, these seminars have provided local officers with critical tools and skills to serve our members effectively. Many 2025 sessions reached capacity, so save the date and read on for registration details. See you in 2026!
When a funding cliff threatened the well-being of SMART members and working families in Chicagoland, organized labor stepped up, eventually winning a funding bill that helps provide security and stability moving forward.