Trespasser and suicide-related incidents now account for 50 percent of all transit-related fatalities reported in 2024. Between 2016 and 2024, these events have risen sharply, with major incidents up 71 percent, fatalities up 70 percent, and injuries up 65 percent. The Federal Transit Administration has issued new recommendations for transit agencies to confront this crisis, along with resources for railroaders who are forced to contend with the aftermath of these incidents.
SMART-TD organized and hosted a multi-union gathering last Saturday. The day was organized by Sister Trena Few and Brother Torryn James from Amtrak Local 1470 (Edmonston, MD), with support from Maryland SLD David Pendleton. “Events like this remind us that our unity is built in moments of fellowship and goodwill.” Read on to see how they are building community and resiliency.
After exactly 53 years of service, Brother Bill Link (Local 1470) retired from Amtrak on June 27. Read on to hear what spurred his railroad career, the lessons he’s learned, and the legacy that he leaves behind for future generations.
General Chairman Rick Pauli announced his retirement after a 32-year career with the railroad. His care and contributions, including the largest-ever Amtrak wage increase and innumerable claims-related precedents, will benefit the union for years to come. He will always be our brother, and we wish him the very best in this next chapter of his life.
As shown by SMART-TD Conductor Robert Cleverly's harrowing experience, Amtrak's cost-cutting measures put workers and passengers at risk. The union is demanding that Amtrak respect the role of Assistant Conductor and prioritize worker welfare over budget cuts.
Nathan Hatton learned de-escalation techniques at SMART-TD's 2024 National Training Seminar in July. A month later, he was confronted with a situation which, improperly handled, could have been catastrophic.
General chairpersons who handle SMART-TD’s Amtrak properties announce that they’ve negotiated improvements in the latest tentative agreement, including substantial wage increases and back pay. The contract will be placed before members for consideration in the very near future.
The 2024 National Training Seminar provides core training for over 700 union officers. They gather to embrace their duty and obligation to do what’s right for our members. Intensive officer training is one reason SMART-TD representation is widely sought by railroad and transit properties nationwide.
With the nation’s premier passenger carrier on the cusp of better things, Amtrak’s executives again are rewarding themselves with millions rather than the people doing the work.