Category: Transportation
Victory in Colorado: SMART-TD Secures Permanent Funding for the Office of Railroad Safety
Colorado’s SMART-TD members have successfully secured permanent funding for the Colorado Office of Railroad Safety through the passage of State Bill SB25-162, marking a major victory after over two years of union-led organizing and advocacy. Read on to see how this bill spearheaded by State Legislative Director Carl Smith, ensures that rail carriers (not workers) will fund the office, which will collect critical safety data to drive reforms both in Colorado and nationwide.
Union officers go the extra mile, but Brian McWilliams literally went 65 of them!
Gary Railway General Chairperson Brian McWilliams of Local 1383 exemplified grit and dedication by running 65 miles in 24-plus hours to raise over $3,700 for Portage High School’s athletic and music programs. Read on to see how his extraordinary feat highlights the values of perseverance, community support, and unwavering commitment that define the SMART-TD spirit.
Tentative Agreement with Keolis Approved by 92%
On April 30, SMART-TD-represented conductors and assistant conductors ratified their tentative agreement (TA) with Boston’s Keolis Commuter Services. Initially presented for a vote in March, this precedent-setting agreement includes retroactive pay, general wage increases (GWI), and additional sick days. Read on to find out what additional items are included in the agreement.
CO Senator Byron Pelton wants railroaders to pay for the state safety office. Seriously.
As SMART-TD members in Colorado work to pass a bill funding the state's Office of Rail Safety, several lawmakers are attempting to amend the legislation so that workers would be required to help foot the bill for the very agency that helps keep them safe. Read on to hear the jaw-dropping remarks that were made during the debate.
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.
Rash of Transit Funding Crises May Impact Members from Coast to Coast
With multiple cities facing difficult decisions about the futures of their transit agencies as the impact of reduced funding, or a lack of funding becomes a reality, SMART-TD members and the riding public will ultimately suffer the consequences. Read on to learn which cities are affected and what the cuts could lead to in the future.
Tesla sparks safety showdown with nation’s rail workers
Tesla calls itself a car company, but they’re really in the battery business. They have requested a permit to ship their lithium-ion batteries by rail, a request that neglects important safety and training measures. Read on to learn about SMART-TD's response to this potentially explosive situation.
Operation Lifesaver campaigns to promote rail safety in 11 states
Operation Lifesaver (OLI) has announced $219,155 in grants to fund rail safety awareness campaigns in 11 states. OLI understands the multifaceted nature of rail safety — with every tragedy averted a railroader is spared from trauma and a family is spared from pain. Read on to learn about their campaigns and to help spread awareness of See Tracks? Think Train!® Week (September 15–21, 2025).