Category: News
Ready For a Change, Connecticut Southern Railroad Joins SMART-TD
For the second time in two weeks, another Genesse and Wyoming property has voted to join SMART-TD. Read on to learn why the workers of the Connecticut Southern Railroad felt that a change was necessary and what impressed organizers the most about these new members of our union family.
Longtime ally of union workers elected minority leader of Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Material Subcommittee
The SMART Transportation Division (SMART TD) congratulates Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-Nevada) on her selection to serve as the Ranking Minority Leader of the House Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee.
Local #823 member killed in on-duty collision
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of SMART-TD member and Union Pacific Conductor Phillip Araujo. As recently reported, he and his engineer, Clay Burt, lost their lives when their train collided with a tractor-trailer in Pecos City, Texas. Brother Ryan Monts of BLET Division 212 has started a GoFundMe account to support the families of Araujo and Brother Burt.
The Safety Of Our BNSF Brothers And Sisters Is Not For Sale!
Join SMART-TD in challenging BNSF’s request to continue to degrade our safety! If it isn’t safe enough for passengers, it isn’t safe enough for us!
Tragic Collision in Pecos, Texas Claims Two Lives
A collision between a Union Pacific train and a tractor-trailer in Pecos, Texas, on December 18 resulted in the deaths of two railroad workers. SMART-TD extends condolences to the victims' families and to Local 823 in their time of grieving.
SMART-TD union announces the passage of the Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness Act (REEF)
After years of work, SMART-TD's Safety and Legislative Department is celebrating the passage of the Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness Act (REEF). With today's vote, our members have succeeded in righting a wrong that imposed an unfair and unintended tax on railroader retirement benefits.
SMART-TD condemns Union Pacific’s lease to Central Oregon Pacific Railroad
SMART-TD responds to UP selling off our members' jobs to a nonunion short line: “Union Pacific’s move in Oregon is just the latest example of how our country is literally getting 'railroaded' by the sharks on Wall Street. The workers on the ground, the businesses, and the communities that rely on these services will pay the price for this callous disregard for safety.” TD President Jeremy Ferguson
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.