Category: Amtrak/Commuter
Trump budget proposal cuts Amtrak, FRA and shorts RRB
If approved as-is, a federal budget proposal for the 2021 fiscal year released Monday, Feb. 10, by President Donald Trump would reduce funding for Amtrak, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and underfund the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). Amtrak, the national passeng [...]
AP report: Shooting on bus in Calif. exposes soft spots in ground transport security
A shooting aboard a Greyhound bus traveling between Los Angeles and San Francisco shows how passenger and operator security for ground transportation is more vulnerable when compared to air travel, The Associated Press reported. One passenger lost her life and five other peop [...]Federal agencies announce random testing rates for 2020
Federal agencies have announced their random drug testing rates for the new calendar year. In December, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a test rate increase from 25 percent to 50 percent of the average number of driver positions because of an [...]
TD legislative representatives take oaths, assume roles
Beginning January 1st, 2020, more than 500 duly elected Legislative Representatives will take their oath of office to serve our great Organization. They have chosen to faithfully serve their membership as SMART-TD officers in the areas of workplace safety, legislation, public [...]
Palmetto GBA: In 2020, RR Medicare ID requirements change
A message from Palmetto GBA: Whether you’re new to Railroad Medicare or starting a new year with Railroad Medicare, it’s important to know about the change to how Medicare identifies you. In 2020, Medicare providers must use your new Medicare number. The old Social Security-b [...]SAFETY: The gift we give our families that should never be compromised
As president of the SMART Transportation Division and on behalf of General President Joseph Sellers, I want to wish every member happy holidays. We are all one family, and this season is a time when we have our loved ones in our thoughts and on our minds. As your president, y [...]
CDL holders: Registration open for FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse database
Voluntary registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Commercial Driver’s License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is open and available online. The Clearinghouse was created as part of new CDL employer background check requirements to take effect Jan. 6 [...]
RRB: Railroad Retirement and Unemployment Insurance taxes in 2020
The amounts of compensation subject to Railroad Retirement Tier I and Tier II payroll taxes will increase in 2020, while the tax rates on employers and employees will stay the same. In addition, unemployment insurance contribution rates paid by railroad employers will not inc [...]