Persistence and Creativity Secure Train Crew Privacy Protections in Indiana

Indiana railroad workers who are involved in fatal grade crossing accidents will now have their names and private information redacted from public view, thanks to a recently passed piece of legislation awaiting the governor’s signature. Read on to learn why its journey to become law took some creative thinking and the knowledge of a two-person lobbying “crew.”

Notches Change, The Reverser DOESN’T

Colorado Pacific Rio Grande Railroad sought concessions from SMART-TD Local 204, but members held firm and secured a unanimous agreement that preserves base earnings while increasing effective hourly pay and improving overtime opportunities. Read on to see how creative bargaining delivered stronger protections when working across affiliated railroads, and several quality-of-life improvements for our Local 204 brothers.

A Legacy of Leadership: Sister Sandra Pineda Sets an Example Behind the Wheel and at Home

Over 20 years ago, Sister Sandra Pineda (Local 1563, El Monte, Calif.) began working as a bus operator for LACMTA as a single mother supporting her three daughters. What started out as a job has grown into two decades of service, solidarity, and unwavering support for her brothers and sisters. To kick off Women’s History Month, we are honored to share a reflection on Sister Pineda’s journey within our union written by one of the people who knows her best.

New Railroad Safety Enhancement Act Builds Momentum

Bipartisan rail safety bills are advancing in both chambers of Congress as the House’s Railroad Safety Enhancement Act builds on the Senate bill locking 2-PC requirements, and many more safeguards for railroaders into federal law. Read on to see how momentum for rail safety could translate into long-sought federal protections, and why your support will be what gets it across the finish line.

Union College Benefit Launches New Discounts, Expands Access

Since its launch in June of 2025, the Union College Benefit has provided SMART-TD members and their immediate families with an opportunity to reach their higher education goals by offering discounted tuition and flexible study options at accredited colleges and universities nationwide. Now, the program is expanding even more. Read on to learn what’s new and how you can start enrolling today.

Real Consequences for Virtual Reality

Railroads are asking the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to let them swap video games for required hands-on training. Read on to see how this push to lower safety standards shifts liability onto workers and why our union is urging the FRA to reject the petitions and keep REAL training in place.

Railroaders Directly Benefit from New Paid Sick Leave Bill

The United States is the only major country where workers are not guaranteed paid sick leave. A new bill introduced in Congress earlier this month and endorsed by SMART-TD would finally right that wrong and ensure that no one is forced to choose between taking care of themselves and their families or earning a paycheck. Read on to learn how our members would be impacted by this legislation.