On March 31, 2025, the Trump administration conceded in a court filing that it had mistakenly deported SMART apprentice Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a legally protected Maryland resident and father, to El Salvador “‘because of an administrative error,’” according to CNN. The administration is also arguing that because Abrego Garcia is now in Salvadoran custody, the government cannot return him to the United States.
SMART News sits down with Greg Hynes, SMART-TD’s national director of the safety and legislative department, and Phil Qualy, retired Minnesota safety and legislative director to discuss the critical implications of proposed cuts within the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB).
Our Women’s History Month celebration highlighted the leadership and perseverance of only a few of the women who are making history in the labor movement, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. SMART-TD thanks all our sisters for their contribution and leadership within our union family.
SMART-TD GO-769, led by General Chairperson Rick Pauli, has reached a lucrative tentative agreement with Keolis Commuter Services. Keolis employees should verify their contact information with their Secretary/Treasurer as soon as possible. Read on to see what’s in the TA and how to receive a ballot.
Local 1760 Chairperson Andrew Wirth, a CSX conductor and dedicated union advocate, is preparing to fight for the 168-pound Master Amateur Division Title in Cleveland on April 12. Read on to see how Wirth draws on his instincts and discipline from union work to excel in the boxing ring.
ACT NOW! Our union is calling on our Nevada members to help support a new rail safety bill by reaching out to your representatives or by contacting Governor Joe Lombardo’s office before April 1. This is our fourth attempt to pass this critical legislation, with Lombardo vetoing the last two bills. Read on to learn what’s in the bill and how you can help change his mind.
Many disabled railroaders receive a fixed income from the Railroad Retirement Act. This can place them in a bind when their property value, and the associated taxes, go up over time. Legislation championed by SMART-TD corrects this problem by bringing a “homestead reimbursement" long enjoyed by social security beneficiaries to New Jersey railroaders. Read on to learn how our local legislative team helped make this law a reality.
Jessica Martin (Local 594) knew that she wanted to get involved after becoming a union member. Unsure of where to start, she found herself unexpectedly nominated to be the legislative representative for her local and won the position. Since then, she’s made it a priority to build relationships and get things done for her members. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, read on to learn what a “typical” day looks like for her and hear her words of wisdom for our union family.
Local 1887 at Birmingham Terminal Railway ratified a landmark agreement with WATCO, securing a substantial wage increase and other quality-of-life improvements without making any concessions. The SMART-TD negotiated contract sets a new industry benchmark for short-line pay and showcases the power of union solidarity.
After convening last month, SMART-TD’s organizers are more determined than ever to grow our union. Read on to learn how our ranks have expanded, both internally and externally, and where our organizers have their sights set for the year ahead.
