After Two Years, 2-PC Becomes Law in Virginia

On April 13, 2026, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed HB 25 into law, which requires a minimum two-person crew (2-PC) on freight trains. Despite falling victim to the former governor’s veto pen two years ago, SMART-TD members dug in and led the charge to get this critical measure over the finish line. Read on for details.

Maryland Senate Advancing Two-Person Crew Bill

Maryland lawmakers announced they are advancing 2-PC freight crew legislation to the Governor's desk. Read on to see how this bill shows the strength of SMART-TD's members when we get involved and speak as one.

President Ferguson Responds to Washington Post

After the Washington Post criticized the Railway Safety Act of 2026, SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson responded with the railroaders’ perspective. Read on to see how he is setting the record straight on rail safety and why workers’ voices matter.

New Jersey Train Length, Crew Size Law Awaits Governor’s Signature

A historic, first-of-its-kind rail safety bill has passed both chambers of the New Jersey Legislature and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature! Read on to see more on the major protections like maximum train length limits and strict two-person crew requirements for freight rail workers.

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.

3rd Annual Railroad Day on the Hill: SMART-TD leads a growing force for rail safety and labor solidarity

SMART-TD is proud to lead the 3rd Annual Railroad Day on the Hill, the nation’s premier rail labor advocacy event. This expanded, two-day summit features increased union participation, and a record number of Congressional meetings focused on safety and labor solidarity. Read on to see how RR Day on the Hill promotes critical legislation while uniting rail workers and lawmakers in a growing push for safer rail operations.

New CSX conductor improvises to save a life

Brother Juan Carrillo has only been a SMART-TD member for four months, and he’s already saved a man’s life during that time. Read on to hear his memories of what happened, why he credits his military training for ensuring that a horrible accident didn’t quickly turn deadly, and how this situation highlights the importance of two-person crews.

Sharp-eyed conductor saves two lives in winter crossing accident 

SMART-TD conductor Brandon LaBombard saved two lives after a chain-reaction of accidents at an icy Michigan grade crossing. Disaster struck mid-train, without any indication in the head end. Eagle-eyed LaBombard witnessed the accident and was able to take heroic action, again proving the value of a two-person freight crew.

Oberman to TD: Vote for your own future

In a letter to SMART-TD members, Marty Oberman, retired chair of the Surface Transportation Board, details the progress and policies at risk in this election. “The protections of rail workers … depends a lot on whether these important offices are filled by a worker-oriented administration. We will need an Administration that will appoint officials who care about rail workers and continue the aggressive oversight [provided] by the current Democratic-led STB and FRA.”