News Archive
New Rail Safety Bill Addresses East Palestine “Vent and Burn” Failures
As the third anniversary of the East Palestine, Ohio derailment approaches, SMART-TD has endorsed the Under Pressure Act. Introduced Jan. 15, 2026, the bipartisan bill is an important step in safely responding to tank cars involved in a derailment. Read on to learn why this is important for us all.
Philadelphia Bus Operator Reinstated by Arbitration Victory
Brother Rasool Aleem is back to work with full back pay after a wrongful dismissal. SMART-TD won in arbitration by knowing the contract and refusing to be intimidated by the other side. Read on to learn more about Aleem’s decisive victory in Philadelphia.
Are You Registered to Vote? Check Your Status Today!
Midterm elections are coming this November. Check and if necessary, update your voter registration information. Read on for instructions, as well as how to review any candidate's voting record. There is no better way to verify whether a candidate is with us or against us than checking their records.
CSX ENDS OPERATION REDBLOCK
On Wednesday, CSX Announced that it's dismantling Operation RedBlock, ending a nationally recognized, union-run safety and substance abuse prevention program that for more than four decades saved lives and kept trains moving safely. Read on to see why rail labor leaders and safety advocates warn that abandoning this trusted, non-punitive program puts workers, communities, and the rail industry at greater risk.
House passes bill to stop health care price spike for SMART members — General President Coleman responds
On January 8, the United States House of Representatives voted to pass a clean extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax subsidies, which would stop a huge price hike in health care costs for working Americans. Read SMART General President Michael Coleman's statement in response.
CTRail Conductor Killed in Car Accident
Brother Bernard Gray (Local 352, West Springfield, Mass.) was killed in a car accident last month. A conductor for CTRail, his family needs help with funeral and other final expenses after this sudden loss. Read on to learn how you can show your support.
Registration Open for St. Paul Regional Training Seminar
Registration is now open for the 2026 St. Paul Regional Training Seminar (RTS). If you were on the fence about attending an RTS last year and didn’t make it to one, don’t miss out on this opportunity to strengthen your leadership skills and add to SMART-TD’s growing momentum in the new year! Register today!
Important DOT Drug Testing Notice Affects Members
While President Donald Trump did issue an Executive Order rescheduling marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug, this does not change drug testing practices or restrictions for transportation personnel. Read on for details on what SMART-TD members need to know.