Jobs Still Protected After Merger Delay

On January 16, 2026, the Surface Transportation Board (STB) issued an update regarding the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger.  

The STB has rejected the merger due to an incomplete and deficient application

The STB determined that the railroads’ merger application was incomplete and lacked the details needed for approval. The decision is “without prejudice to refiling”. Consequently, any application refiling should aim to allow both the STB and the public to properly evaluate the merger. 

Click here to read the STB’s decision ►

SMART TD Jobs for Life agreement is still in effect

The Jobs for Life agreement with Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern is not rejected, cancelled, or weakened by this decision. The agreement remains tied to the merger process and stands as a critical safeguard for SMART-TD members as things move forward. As the merger faces increased scrutiny and delays, our agreement ensures that railroad workers are not left in limbo. It protects jobs, preserves seniority, and provides long-term security in an industry where consolidation has too often meant uncertainty for working families. 

An Agreement Worth Fighting For 

Major rail mergers are complex and take time. Those who keep the railroads operating should not bear the risk of that uncertainty. Thanks to the Jobs for Life agreement, SMART-TD members won’t. 

Job security is placed at the forefront, while regulators do their work and while railroads pursue their corporate goals. 

SMART-TD will continue to monitor the merger process closely. Our message remains simple: no merger should move forward without ironclad protections for the workers who keep this industry running. 

We will keep everyone informed as new developments occur.