Category: Legislation
Transit Funding Boost Proposed by SMART-TD Backed Bill
The Moving Transit Forward Act reignites interest in helping transit agencies meet operational and security shortfalls. The act taps into a funding mechanism that already provides grants to city transit systems. Read on to learn more about the Act and SMART-TD's support.
New Mass. Law Protects SMART-TD Transit Members
On Wednesday afternoon, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey strengthened protections for public and private transit workers by signing H. 4645 into law. Several SMART-TD members championed this legislation from Day 1, pushed to get it over the finish line, and were present for the signing. Read on to learn about the new protections and how they could lead to improved conditions for workers across the country.
Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act Protects Railroaders Who Served
SMART-TD has endorsed Rep. Melanie Stanbury’s “Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act” (H.R. 5982) which restores full Railroad Retirement Board unemployment benefits, which has been unfairly reduced by military retirement pay. Read on to learn more about the bill and this union’s commitment to our veterans.
Call to Action in Mass.: Transit Safety Legislation Up for Final Vote
The Massachusetts State Senate is holding an important vote tomorrow (Thursday, November 6, around 11:00 am) to solidify stronger safety protections for transit workers. All available members are asked to attend and show their support. Read on to learn more about the legislation and why this vote is critical.
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.