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Attention SMART-TD rail members: are any of your dependents attending law school? If so, one of our Designated Legal Counsel (DLC) firms has an opportunity just for them.

Casey Jones Law Firm partners with various law schools, including the University of Minnesota, the University of Wisconsin, and even Harvard, to bring in law student interns during the school year and over the summer for credit.

The big legal defense firms that the railroads use do something similar, except Casey Jones helps to build a bench of experienced and passionate attorneys who will represent our members if they’re hurt on the job.

The role is geared towards a second or third-year law student who is interested in unions and employment rights, particularly representing workers who have been injured or discriminated against.

Interns assist with researching and drafting memos and briefs, examining collective bargaining agreements, and participating in client meetings among other responsibilities.

“Giving railroad families a head start [on applying] makes sense—they already speak the craft, they connect naturally with railroaders and witnesses, and a lot of them want to stay in this fight for the long haul,” DLC Attorney Nick Thompson explained.

Casey Jones Law Firm has offices in Minneapolis, MN, Madison, WI, and Dublin, OH, but the role is also available on a remote basis.

If you know someone who would be interested in applying, please have them send a resume, cover letter, and brief writing sample to contact@caseyjones.law. A flyer with more information can also be found here.

UPDATED October 10, 2025

Join together with hundreds of our railroad brothers and sisters for the 2025 Houston Rail Labor Solidarity Rally next week in Houston, Texas!

Scheduled for Tuesday, October 14 from 12-7 p.m. CT at the SPJST Lodge #88 (1435 Beall Street, Houston), the event fosters collaboration among various railroad crafts and focuses on the shared mission of protecting safety and job security and advancing railroad workers’ rights.

In addition to hearing from a lineup of speakers across the labor and political spectrum, attendees have an opportunity for one-on-one consultations with representatives from organizations such as the Railroad Retirement Board, our fraternal insurance organization, American Journey Financial Life, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Of course, the rally wouldn’t be complete without its signature Texas barbecue and prize drawings for lots of exciting items!

Spouses and retirees are also welcome-we look forward to seeing many of you in Houston!

For more information about the rally or to RSVP, please reach out to Brother Robert Maldonado (Local 1892) at (832) 253-7425 or e-mail r.maldonado-67@att.net or click here.

SMART-TD Local 1470 (Edmonston, MD) with support from the Maryland Safety and Legislative Board, hosted Railroad Solidarity Day. Held in Schrom Hills Park in Greenbelt, Md., Solidarity Day was organized by 1470’s Vice Safety and Legislative Representative, Trena Few and Brother Torryn James.  It featured great food, music, dancing, and the kind of camaraderie that only union solidarity can inspire.  

Local 1470 Retiree Dave Brooks, SPV Founder Carlyle Smith, and Local 1470 Vice Chair Brian Eden

The event built solidarity between Amtrak’s operating unions in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland, areas. Members from multiple unions bonded through shared activities, including SMART-TD, BLET’s Division 482, and Unite Here Local 23.  

Sister Few shared why activities like this are important, “as railroaders in various unions, we stand side-by-side every day in the fight for safety, fairness, and dignity on the job.  But events like this remind us that our unity is also built in moments of fellowship and goodwill. When we take the time to gather outside of the fight, we strengthen the personal bonds and open the lines of communication that make us stronger in every challenge we face together as rail labor.” 

From left to right: Kenzell Crawford, Trena Few, Stacey Smith & Keiarah Parris

Maryland SLD Pendleton says our Board was proud to support Sister Few and Brother James in their efforts to bring together all of Amtrak’s Rail Labor to celebrate each other and salutes them for their success in doing so.  Their hard work, dedication and leadership is greatly appreciated. 

Local 1470 and the Maryland Safety & Legislative Board wants to thank SMART-TD National Safety and Legislative Director Jared Cassity for attending and showing his continued support for Maryland members, their families, and the enduring spirit of solidarity that keeps our movement strong. 

From left to right: Local 1470 Vice Chair Brian Eden, Maryland Safety & Legislative Director David Pendleton, SMART-TD’s National Safety & Legislative Director Jared Cassity, and Matt Tolliver

The festivities were sponsored by SMART-TD Designated Legal Counsel, Matt Darby – The Darby Law Group, BRCF, Railroad Generations, and the Steven P. Vann Foundation.

Maryland Safety & Legislative Director David Pendleton and Designated Legal Cousel (DLC) Matt Darby

Trena Few (left) and Local 1470 S&T Tinley Bikos

As of today (Tuesday, October 7), registration for the upcoming Atlanta Regional Training Seminar (RTS) is now CLOSED due to capacity and high attendance numbers.

If you were on the fence about whether or not to attend an RTS this year and didn’t make it to one, be sure to keep an eye out for our 2026 host cities, which will be announced soon.

These regional trainings are continuing to grow in attendance and popularity, so don’t miss your chance to take advantage of this valuable opportunity in-person!

The Atlanta RTS begins on Monday, October 27, 2025, with an evening Welcome Reception. The training will cover topics such as local governance, the roles and responsibilities of local presidents, secretaries, treasurers, legislative representatives, and local chairpersons in member advocacy, an overview of the SMART Constitution, and other key subjects.   

  • Location: Wyndham Atlanta Buckhead  
  • Dates: October 27-30, 2025 (S&T: October 27-31)  
  • Room Rate: $159/night   

For a detailed meeting agenda, please visit the Meetings page via the SMART Union mobile app.

All RTS presentations will be available on the SMART University site, and those attending future meetings can print them off to assist in following along when attending the in-person classes.

If you have any last-minute questions, please contact Nick Torres in the SMART-TD office at 216-227-5269 or by email at ntorres@smart-union.org. 

From a landmark agreement reached with Union Pacific that secures SMART-TD members’ jobs, to a string of contract ratifications in our Bus Department, there’s been no shortage of news recently in our universe.  
 
But just because we’re sharing these stories and others like them every day, that doesn’t mean that we’re capturing everything that’s happening throughout our union, including the good, the bad, and the ugly.  
 
SMART News can’t be at every local meeting or in the halls of every State Capitol.  

That’s where you, our members, come into play.  
 
Are the carriers trying to cut corners or skirt safety regulations at the expense of rail workers? Share that tip! 
 
Do you know of a fellow union brother or sister who’s got a powerful story who has earned some time in the spotlight? Tell us! 
 
Is there an important piece of legislation that has the potential to affect our union? Let us know! 
 
The bottom line: YOU are our best source of information! 

Send us your stories and keep up with what’s happening throughout our union by using the daily Newswire e-mail, Facebook, LinkedIn, smart-union.org or sign up for the quarterly TD Newspaper.
 
Ending each daily Newswire e-mail with “Have a Story? Tell the News Team” isn’t just lip service or a placeholder: it’s a genuine request to let us know what’s going on in your state, the conversations happening in the crew room, and the issues that are top of mind for our brothers and sisters across our union.  
 
Get involved and let us know what stories SMART News should tell!   

In a landmark victory that ensures stronger protections against the assaults, harassment, and threats that far too many of our members face on the job, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 394 into law yesterday. The bill was authored by Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) and proudly co-sponsored by SMART-TD.  

AB 394 recognizes that transit workers are essential, frontline professionals who deserve a safe and respectful workplace.  

What AB 394 Delivers for Transit Workers  

  • Tougher Penalties: Assaulting or battering a transit worker now carries enhanced penalties, closing gaps that previously left many employees under-protected.  
  • Stronger Court Protections: Transit agencies, unions, or workers themselves can now seek restraining orders and injunctions that apply across an entire transit system, not just a single bus or station.  
  • No Barriers to Justice: Filing fees are waived for petitions related to workplace harassment, stalking, or violence, making it easier and faster for workers to get protection.  
  • Keeping Bad Actors Off Transit: Courts can now ban repeat offenders from using an entire transit system if they are convicted of assaulting a worker.  

AB 394 gives transit employees and their unions the tools they need to defend workers, protect riders, and deter bad behavior before it escalates.  

SMART-TD’s Role in Getting This Done 

SMART-TD was at the table from the very beginning, fighting to ensure that this bill reflected the real challenges our members face every day. Our California Safety and Legislative Director, Louie Costa, worked directly with Assemblywoman Wilson’s office and coalition partners to ensure that AB 394 delivered real, enforceable protections for bus and transit workers.  

This victory was possible because of SMART-TD’s leadership, your voices as members, and our strong partnerships with allies in labor and the legislature.  

Gov. Newsom and Rep. Wilson Earned Our Respect  

SMART-TD’s California State Safety and Legislative Director Louie Costa celebrated the victory, saying:  

“The California Safety and Legislative Board is proud to congratulate Assemblywoman Wilson for her leadership in protecting transit workers with the signing of Assembly Bill 394. Our members frequently face threats of violence – and these incidents have steadily climbed over the past several years. AB 394 will enhance the penalties when individuals harm our members and transit riders and will give transit agencies more tools, they can use to keep transportation systems safe. AB 394 strengthens protections against assaults and harassment on public transit, giving our members greater safety and peace of mind while serving the public. We were proud to co-sponsor AB 394 along with the California Transit Association, Teamsters, and the Amalgamated Transit Union. 

We also thank Governor Newsom for signing AB 394 and acknowledging the need for enhanced protection for essential transit workers. The work to get this bill passed was a collaborative effort by the CSLB Executive Committee and several Legislative Representatives who made several trips to the Capitol in support.”  

California is on the Right Path  

For too long, transit workers have been asked to do their jobs under the shadow of rising threats and violence, an issue that SMART-TD has covered in-depth. With AB 394, California is making it clear: enough is enough. From verbal threats to assault with a deadly weapon, this needs to end! Our members deserve the same dignity, safety, and respect as any other profession. This law and the work that went into passing it put California on this path!  

This is your win. This is Solidarity!  

NOTE: THE FOLLOWING APPLIES TO MEMBERS ON BNSF, NS, CN, AND ALL CLASS II AND CLASS III RAILROADS WHO ARE PARTY TO NATIONAL BARGAINING AND HAVE NOT ALREADY RATIFIED ON-PROPERTY AGREEMENTS.

SMART-TD and the NCCC have reached mutual agreement on the questions and answers submitted by our General Committees of Adjustment. For reference, a link to those agreed upon Q&As is provided below. With that step complete, we can now move on to ratification.

On October 8, 2025, SMART-TD will be sending out ballots to all of the involved and eligible members. To help clear up some questions ahead of time, we are publishing some frequently asked Q&As about this process.

Who is Eligible to Vote?

In order to be eligible, SMART-TD members must be in active status as of October 7, and must be employed by a Carrier that has joined the NCCC for National bargaining.

Members who are in inactive status (e.g., furlough, suspension, dismissal, disability, leave of absence, etc.) are not eligible to vote. Managers who pay dues to retain their seniority are also not eligible to vote.

Note: BNSF Yardmasters, and all members on BNSF’s former Joint Texas Division have already ratified on-property agreements in lieu of National agreements, so those members will not be included in this ratification.

If you are unsure of your Carrier’s participation status, they are listed on “Exhibit A” of each TA (found in between the Side Letters and Q&As – links are provided below). You can also contact your Local Chairperson or General Chairperson for clarification. If you’re unsure of who your Chairpersons are or how to get a hold of them, their contact information can be found on the SMART Union app, or on the Member Portal section of www.smart-union.org.

Are SMART-TD Engineers Also Eligible to Vote?

Yes. When voting, members will be asked which craft they are working in. Choices will be Conductor, Engine Service, Brakeman, Yardman, and Yardmaster. Choose the craft that you were most recently assigned to and working on October 7.

What methods will be used for voting?

Packets mailed on October 8 will include personalized 12-digit access codes and instructions for dial-in telephonic voting. On October 16, text message and email reminders will be sent out to all eligible members who have not yet voted. Those electronic messages will include links to vote using a secure web-based portal. On October 24, another round of electronic links will be sent to members who have not yet voted.

When will voting end? How soon will we see the results?

Our 21-day ratification will close on Wednesday, October 29, at 11:59 p.m. (ET). Results will be announced the following morning.

Is it true that if I abstain from voting, my vote is automatically counted as a vote to “ACCEPT?”

Despite this being completely false, the rumor circulates every time we have National tentative agreement. Every vote is important, and only the votes cast will get counted, so don’t miss your opportunity!

What should I do if I don’t receive a ballot in the mail?

In most cases, this happens when members fail to update SMART-TD with their current home address. Occasionally, there are delays with USPS. In any case, on Thursday, October 16, we will be sending text and email ballots to all members who have not yet voted. If you still haven’t received anything by Friday, October 17, please contact us by calling (216) 227-5424, or by sending an email to: ContractQuestions@smart-union.org.

In doing so, please mention your name and provide relevant information to confirm your identity, such as your employee ID number, date of birth, and/or the last 4 digits of your SSN. Also provide us with your current home address, cell phone number, and email address. With that information, we will be able to send you a replacement ballot via text and/or email, and update your contact information if necessary.

Where can I find more information about our TA?

Agreed Upon Q&As ►

Cover Letters, Synopsis of TAs,►

T&E Operating Crafts TA (Complete w/Q&As and Rate Tables) ►

Yardmasters TA (Complete w/Q&As) ►

Less than three years ago, the idea of State Representative Ty Winter meeting with SMART-TD’s Colorado State Legislative Board (SLB) would have seemed impossible.  
 
That’s exactly what happened on Wednesday, when the former rail safety legislation opponent met with our brothers and sisters who offered their support for his reelection campaign.  
 
How did a lawmaker who was against us become an unexpected ally? Look no further than the power of our union and the strength of our members. 

The Challenge: Gaining Winter’s Support for Rail Safety   

Back in 2023, Representative Winter was very clear: he refused to support the rail safety legislation being championed by SMART-TD’s Colorado Safety & Legislative Director Carl Smith.

The bill was forged in the immediate aftermath of the East Palestine disaster. Over the following months, several major derailments in Colorado underscored the need for greater oversight over railroad operations.  
 
Representative Winter served on the committee responsible for deciding whether to “preapprove” the bill, which ultimately set the stage for how the General Assembly would view the proposed legislation.  
 
This posed a problem.  

Representative Winter (center) with SMART-TD’s Colorado Safety & Legislative Director Carl Smith (left) and State Legislative Board Officers.

Winter Listened to His Constituents, AKA SMART-TD Members 

Representative Winter’s district just happens to have the largest number of active and retired SMART-TD members in the state, so SLD Smith mobilized our Colorado brothers and sisters, flooding the lawmaker’s office with phone calls and messages.  

When it was time to vote, Representative Winter shocked the railroads by announcing his support for the rail safety bill.  
 
“I truly believe that hearing from his constituents and especially our members who live in his district was a huge factor in gaining Representative Winter’s support,” explained SLD Smith. “Our members rose to the occasion and showed what our union can accomplish when we come together to reach a common goal.”  
 
SLD Smith points out that Representative Winter’s father also happened to work in the roundhouse for Colorado and Southern Railroad, so this was a topic that likely hit home for him.  
 
“In the end, it was probably a pretty easy bill to support,” said Smith.  

Our campaign was not an effort to intimidate or threaten. You, our members, explained your issues and informed him of the urgency of passing this bill. To Representative Winter’s credit, he heard you, he respected your voice as industry experts, and he acted in response to the information provided.  

To accurately represent the will of their constituents is everything we hope to see in a government official.

Representative Winter meets with Local 945 members.

Safety Knows No Party 

While the final version of the legislation that passed earlier this year looked different from what was first introduced, Representative Winter’s early support was key to getting it over the finish line.  
 
SMART-TD stands by our word: if you are an elected official who supports us, we will support you, regardless of the letter that’s next to your name.

Due to limited capacity in some of the classrooms and already high attendance numbers, registration is now CLOSED for the Local President and S&T tracks during the upcoming Atlanta Regional Training Seminar (RTS)!

Space in the remaining tracks is filling up quickly, so don’t delay and finalize your registration today!

The Atlanta RTS begins on Monday, October 27, 2025, with an evening Welcome Reception. The training will cover topics such as local governance, the roles and responsibilities of local presidents, secretaries, treasurers, legislative representatives, and local chairpersons in member advocacy, an overview of the SMART Constitution, and other key subjects.   

  • Location: Wyndham Atlanta Buckhead  
  • Dates: October 27-30, 2025 (S&T: October 27-31)  
  • Room Rate: $159/night   
  • Registration Fee: $75

For a detailed meeting agenda, please visit the Meetings page via the SMART Union mobile app.

All RTS presentations will be available on the SMART University site, and those attending future meetings can print them off to assist in following along when attending the in-person classes.

Don’t forget: This is your last chance to take advantage of this valuable training opportunity until next year!

For more information, contact Nick Torres in the SMART-TD office at 216-227-5269 or by email at ntorres@smart-union.org. 

We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta!  
 

For the fourth time in less than 10 years, the federal government has shut down.

With the lights turned off and the partisan bickering continuing in Washington, working families are trying to get a sense of what’s still open and how their lives will be impacted until the government is up and running again.  

Railroad Retirement Board Remains Open

While Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) offices remain open and are expected to still accept new claims for unemployment and sickness benefits and new applications for retirement, survivor, and disability annuities, the agency is an outlier in terms of business as usual. 

Regulators and Mediators are Mostly Closed

Apart from emergency situations, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), National Mediation Board (NMB), National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Surface Transportation Board (STB) are closed, with the FRA furloughing 23% of its staff.

According to the Department of Transportation, the FRA’s Office of Railroad Safety, which investigates accidents and inspects railroad equipment, will stay open.   

Transit Running on Schedule…For Now

Passenger rail, such as Amtrak, will continue running. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is expected to stay open and operate as usual.

While the same is true for transit agencies in cities across the country, those that are facing funding shortfalls may be forced to alter their operations or close entirely.

SMART News will continue to keep you updated on any changes to these plans for the duration of the shutdown. If you see any effects of the shutdown on our members or the services we rely on, please let SMART News know about it. We want to use that information to help all our brothers and sisters navigate this complicated situation.