Category: Legislation
CSX Asks to keep Safety Reports out of the Crew Rooms, Injuries are Up, Fatalities Continue, and Transparency is Down
CSX was granted a waiver in 2020 on the condition they would ensure easy access to accident and injury reports with their employees. They didn’t. They haven’t. And they had five years to get it right. Now they want another 5-year pass to keep these reports buried in an electronic system that, as every railroader already knows, most crew members cannot easily access while on duty. Read on to see how, with our members’ help, SMART-TD shared the real story about CSX safety culture with the FRA.
Long-time Union Ally Mikie Sherrill Runs for New Jersey Governor
If you work in New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill has earned your consideration in the upcoming election. Her voting record and active labor outreach have helped our union countless times in the past. Read on to see how she shows up for SMART and SMART-TD in Washington, and how this will continue if she is elected to lead in New Jersey.
New California Law Protects Transit Workers
A new SMART-TD sponsored bill was signed into law that gives transit employees and their unions the tools they need to defend workers, protect riders, and deter bad behavior before it escalates. Read on to learn more about AB 394.
From Skeptic to Supporter: Members Work Across the Aisle to Tackle Rail Safety
The recent battle for rail safety in Colorado highlights how SMART-TD members successfully brought a state representative to our side. It wasn’t an easy journey to get there. Read on for details, including how this underscores our union’s “purple” political affiliation.
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.
Congressman Resurrects Attempt to Nullify Federal Two-Person Crew (2-PC) Rule
It’s a case of déjà vu as a Missouri Congressman tries once again to rescind the 2024 federal two-person crew (2-PC) rule, jeopardizing the safety of railroaders while appeasing the carriers and special interests. Read on to learn more about this second misguided attempt and how you can help ensure that it doesn’t become law.
New Jersey Passes Two New Pro-Labor Laws Backed by SMART-TD
Two new SMART-TD backed laws in New Jersey reject “captive audience” meetings and ensure labor history is taught in New Jersey schools. Read on to learn how the Garden State is supporting their workers now and into the future.
Rep. Lawler’s Transit Funding Flexibility Act of 2025 receives SMART-TD Endorsement
Republican Congressman Mike Lawler’s Transit Funding Flexibility Act of 2025 would let cities use existing federal transit grants on payroll as well as infrastructure. Read on to see why it earned SMART-TD’s endorsement and how the bill offers a lifeline to our members in places like Philadelphia and Chicago.