Bipartisan Congress votes to rescue transportation funding from Trump’s chopping block

May 4, 2017 WASHINGTON—In the strongest bi-partisan moves since President Trump’s election, Congress passed a spending agreement called an omnibus that is in stark contrast to President Trump’s 2018 budget – in which he proposed that transportation funds be slashed by t [...]

Three railroad safety bills – first hearing May 4 in Ohio Senate

Ohio State Senators Kenny Yuko (D) and Michael Skindell (D) are leading the effort to make Ohio railroads safer for crews and communities. The following three railroad legislative initiatives are scheduled for a first hearing Thursday, May 4 at 9:00 am at the Ohio Statehouse [...]

Trump budget could end Amtrak service in many states, including North Dakota, Minnesota

The BismarckTribune.com reported that if the Trump budget passes, the effect on commuter rail will be serious, as Amtrak services could cease in numerous states, including North Dakota and Minnesota. ‘“It’s ironic that President Trump’s first budget proposal undermines [...]

Rail ‘crew hauler’ safety measures expected to become law in state of Washington

On March 23, 2011, SMART TD member Dwight Hauck nearly died in a horrific crew transport van-train collision in a Kelso, Washington, rail yard that killed two other passengers and the driver. Hauck suffered permanent, debilitating injuries as a result of the crash. The incide [...]