When SMART Speaks, Washington Listens

A key Capitol Hill discussion highlighted workers’ safety challenges in rail and transit, with SMART’s General President Michael Coleman informing key members of Congress on meaningful reforms our members are looking for. Read on to see how GP Coleman brought solutions, not just problems with him to D.C.

PRESS RELEASE: SMART-TD Sounds the Alarm On Barr Yard Job Cuts

A potential shutdown of historic Barr Yard in Chicago could jeopardize SMART-TD jobs, disrupt freight movement nationwide, and make public safety concerns worse. Workers warn of repeating one of Hunter Harrison’s epic failures. Read on to see what’s at stake for our Chicago brothers and sisters.

President Ferguson Puts Up 10K to Stop Racist Harassment At NS

Three years of racist radio attacks push Georgia crews to the limit, triggering a $10,000 reward and direct notice to Norfolk Southern leadership. Read on to see how SMART-TD is making it clear that WE will act, with or without the Railroad.

Maryland Senate Advancing Two-Person Crew Bill

Maryland lawmakers announced they are advancing 2-PC freight crew legislation to the Governor's desk. Read on to see how this bill shows the strength of SMART-TD's members when we get involved and speak as one.

Holding the Line

When tragedy strikes on the railroad, injured workers and families face pressure while management focuses on liability and control. Members must be prepared to protect one another and stand united. Read on to learn how to hold the line.

Bad Order Tags Under Fire In Utah

The following addresses recent reports from Utah regarding managers allegedly removing bad-order tags on unsafe equipment. Read on to see what protections railroaders have and the steps to take to keep you and your coworkers safe.

President Ferguson Responds to Washington Post

After the Washington Post criticized the Railway Safety Act of 2026, SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson responded with the railroaders’ perspective. Read on to see how he is setting the record straight on rail safety and why workers’ voices matter.

Merger Delay Does NOT Impact Jobs for Life Agreement

In September of 2025, SMART-TD announced a groundbreaking Jobs for Life agreement that protects our members from furloughs or downsizing after the merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Six months and a brief delay in the merger process later, these safeguards are still worth fighting for. Read on to learn what happens next in the process and how SMART-TD is continuing to advocate for long-term job security for our brothers and sisters.

Railroads Have Short Memories: East Palestine 3 Years Later

Ohio State Safety & Legislative Director Clyde Whitaker reflects on the 3rd anniversary of the East Palestine derailment with a powerful commentary. Despite new laws and promises, the railroads are still playing the same dangerous games with safety. Read on to see how crews are still being pressured to ignore defect detector warnings and keep trains moving, proving that profits continue to come before people.

Value of Unions

Unions provide the stability and protection that non-union workers increasingly lack in an economy defined by mass layoffs. This reality is underscored by decades of job cuts in sectors like technology, finance, and manufacturing. Read one to see how our recent job-security gains prove that union solidarity is still the strongest defense against becoming a labor department statistic.