Category: Legislation
Virginia 2-PC Law Could Become a Reality if We Act Now
After falling victim to former Governor Glenn Youngkin’s veto pen in 2024, legislation requiring a minimum two-person crew (2-PC) on freight trains is one step closer to becoming law in Virginia. With a new governor in office, the momentum is on our side —read on to learn how you can help get the bill over the finish line.
Federal Protection for Train Crews Promised by Passenger Rail Crew Protection Act
As transit workers across the country continue facing the near-daily threat of assaults on the job, a new bipartisan bill endorsed by SMART-TD would make the assault of passenger rail workers a federal crime. Read on to learn more about the bill, including why this is only the first step in protecting all members of our union.
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.
Victory in Chicago as SMART-TD Helps Establish New $1.5 Billion Transit Agency
On December 16, 2025, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act (NITA) into law, ensuring that Chicago’s transit systems are guaranteed the funding they need to avoid service and job cuts. SMART-TD was invited to attend the signing and was instrumental in passing this critical legislation. Read on to learn more about another legislative win for our union.
New Jersey Train Length, Crew Size Law Awaits Governor’s Signature
A historic, first-of-its-kind rail safety bill has passed both chambers of the New Jersey Legislature and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature! Read on to see more on the major protections like maximum train length limits and strict two-person crew requirements for freight rail workers.
Transit Funding Boost Proposed by SMART-TD Backed Bill
The Moving Transit Forward Act reignites interest in helping transit agencies meet operational and security shortfalls. The act taps into a funding mechanism that already provides grants to city transit systems. Read on to learn more about the Act and SMART-TD's support.
New Mass. Law Protects SMART-TD Transit Members
On Wednesday afternoon, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey strengthened protections for public and private transit workers by signing H. 4645 into law. Several SMART-TD members championed this legislation from Day 1, pushed to get it over the finish line, and were present for the signing. Read on to learn about the new protections and how they could lead to improved conditions for workers across the country.
Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act Protects Railroaders Who Served
SMART-TD has endorsed Rep. Melanie Stanbury’s “Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act” (H.R. 5982) which restores full Railroad Retirement Board unemployment benefits, which has been unfairly reduced by military retirement pay. Read on to learn more about the bill and this union’s commitment to our veterans.