Update on National Rail Contract –Make Sure You Get Your Ballot

With the National contract ratification vote on the horizon, all members are strongly encouraged to verify that your union has your correct contact information on file to ensure that you receive your voting instructions. Read on for important details.

New law would end unfair taxation on workers’ strike pay

In mid-September, Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona introduced the Tax Cut for Striking Workers Act. This legislation would make it so striking workers no longer get taxed on the small payments they receive from a union strike fund. “The Tax Cut for Striking Workers Act is jus [...]

Two RRB Field Offices Move to New Locations

If you’re served by either the Cincinnati or St. Paul Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) field offices, please be advised that both have moved to new, nearby locations. Read on to learn why and get the new addresses.

Reactions to the SMART-TD Guarantee with Union Pacific

If there’s one lesson we've learned since the 1860s, it’s that you cannot trust the railroads for a damn thing. They’ve got lawyers, lobbyists, and PR firms paid to get them out of any promise they ever make. Read on to hear our response to a few crew room questions about our deal with Union Pacific.

SMART-TD Members: Scholarships Available for You and Your Families

SMART-TD is reminding members that valuable scholarship opportunities are available not only to them, but also to their spouses and dependent children, helping ease the cost of higher education. Read on to learn how programs like the Union Plus Scholarship can turn hard work into brighter futures for union families.

President Ferguson Meets with SMART-TD Members at 3rd Annual Carolina Solidarity Shoot

SMART-TD members from North and South Carolina gathered in Ellerbe, N.C., for the 3rd Annual Carolina Solidarity Shoot, an event rooted in fellowship, teamwork, and strengthening ties across state lines. Read on to see how union officers from both states and the International connected directly with members, listened to their concerns on national negotiations, and reinforced the union’s commitment to solidarity and communication.

SMART-TD and Union Pacific Announce Landmark Agreement Securing Jobs and the Future of Railroading

A groundbreaking agreement guarantees that SMART-TD members working in train and yardmaster service will have job protection for the length of their careers, following the proposed merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern and subject to the usual requirements for continued employment. This is an unprecedented guarantee in the history of American railroading. Read on for details.

New Online Job Insurance Claim Form Now Available

SMART-TD members can now file a Job Insurance (DIPP) claim online using a new form available on both the Member Portal and mobile app. The convenient form streamlines the process for those seeking benefits. Read on for a step-by-step guide.

Overtime Relief for Railroaders Introduced in Congress

When the Big Beautiful Bill was passed in July, workers governed by the Railroad Labor Act were not included in a tax break on overtime pay. Today, September 19, 2025, a SMART-TD-backed bill was introduced in Congress to include us in the tax exemption. Read on to learn more about the bill and how you can help get it passed.