Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act Protects Railroaders Who Served

November 13, 2025 — Washington, D.C. — SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) proudly announces its endorsement of Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury’s newly introduced legislation, the Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act (H.R. 5982). Her bill ensures that military retirement pay is not classified as a “social insurance payment” under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act (RUIA). This technical clarification will prevent veterans working in the railroad industry from having their unemployment benefits unfairly reduced. 

Closing a Costly Loophole for Railroad Veterans 

For too long, veterans who then worked for America’s railroads have faced an unjust penalty. Their hard-earned military retirement benefits reduce Railroad Retirement Board unemployment benefits. The Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act closes this loophole, ensuring that no veteran’s military service becomes a financial disadvantage. 

“Service to our country is not something we should ever take for granted, nor should it be held against anyone,” said SMART-TD President and U.S. Army veteran Jeremy Ferguson. “Our brothers and sisters who wore the uniform and now keep our economy moving deserve the full benefits they’ve earned, both as veterans and as railroaders. The DD-214 they carry is a badge of courage and selflessness, not a target. We are proud to stand with Congresswoman Stansbury in this fight to right that wrong.” 

SMART-TD’s National Safety and Legislative Director Jared Cassity emphasized the union’s longstanding partnership with Congresswoman Stansbury on this issue. 

“We worked side-by-side with Rep. Stansbury when she first introduced this bill last Congress,” Cassity said. “Unfortunately, it didn’t have the chance to become law before that session ended. When she decided to reintroduce it, her office came straight to SMART-TD to renew our partnership. This time, we’re not just endorsing the bill-we’re working Capitol Hill to make sure it gets across the finish line. Our veterans deserve nothing less.” 

A Timely Tribute

As the nation paused to honor its veterans earlier this week, the introduction of H.R. 10109 stands as a testament that the value we place on our veterans is not symbolic: it’s a driving force in our union. SMART-TD represents thousands of veterans across the rail industry. These men and women answered the call to serve and continue to sacrifice daily to keep America’s supply chains running. 

“This legislation is about fairness, respect, and gratitude,” Ferguson added. “It’s about making sure no veteran has to choose between the benefits they earned defending our country and the benefits they earned keeping it running.” 

SMART-TD extends its sincere appreciation to Congresswoman Stansbury for her continued advocacy on behalf of America’s veterans and railroaders. Together, we are committed to ensuring that every veteran in the rail industry receives the full measure of the benefits they’ve earned through their service and sacrifice.