Category: Legislation
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.
1% Declares War On 2-PC & SMART-TD
Steve Forbes used his publication to attack SMART-TD and our hard-won federal Two-Person Crew (2PC) Rule. He’s pushing the usual agenda for short-term profits over reasonable service or basic human safety. Read on to see SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson’s no-holds-barred demand for accountability. Since Forbes won’t publish it, we’re taking it straight to the American people.
Unions Join Together to Fix Overtime Tax Loophole for Transportation Workers
Railroad and transportation unions are turning up the heat on Congress to fix a mistake in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that’s cheating SMART-TD members out of big overtime tax breaks. In a powerful joint letter, unions demand a fix so every rail worker who puts in long hours gets the money and respect they deserve.
Bad Actors to be Restrained Thanks to New SMART-TD-backed Transit Bill
California joins a growing list of states where SMART-TD members are fighting for stronger protections for transit operators, employees, and passengers. Read on to learn what changes could be coming to current law that would ensure our members’ enhanced safety.