SMART Local 769A

29/04/2026

Tell Congress 🚫NO CUTS🚫 to Passenger
Please ask your senators and representative to oppose cuts to passenger rail funding.

The latest budget proposal the White House sent to Congress cuts funding for the Federal Railroad Administration by 81%. It’s urgent that you tell your Member of Congress to invest more, not less, in passenger rail.

The voices of passenger rail riders, business leaders and the elected officials in the communities that the trains serve have given members of Congress the resolve to prevent proposed cuts in the past. Your message now will urge them to continue to do so.

26/03/2026

The Demand Is Here. It’s Time to Run More Trains.

America is defined by its regions. From the mountains and lush forests of Cascadia, to the plains and Great Lakes of the Midwest, to the bluegrass and sweet wetlands of the Southeast—every region is unique.

26/03/2026

Weekly news and analysis of Michigan politics by the professional journalists of MIRSnews.com

17/03/2026

Sláinte!

05/03/2026

Today SMART-TD had the opportunity to present before the Michigan House Committee on State and Local Transportation Appropriations to discuss the importance of continued investment in passenger rail across our state.

Representing our membership, Local Chairperson Nate Hatton along with SMART-TD State Safety & Legislative Director Eric Stanger, spoke about how passenger rail is more than transportation, it is a driver of economic development, workforce mobility, and good-paying union jobs

Nearly 8 million Michiganders live within commuting distance of our existing passenger rail network, making rail one of the most effective ways to connect people to jobs, education, and opportunity. Continued investment ensures Michigan remains competitive while strengthening our communities and supporting working families.
Passenger rail doesn’t just move people, it creates jobs, attracts businesses, supports tourism, and helps build vibrant downtowns across Michigan.

SMART-TD will continue advocating for policies and investments that support our members, strengthen our transportation network, and keep Michigan moving forward.
Thank you to our members who proudly represent our craft every day on the rails.

🚆 Investing in passenger rail is investing in Michigan’s future.

Subscribe and never miss Committee or Session livestreamsAGENDAPresentations on Rail Passenger Programs from: -Peter Anastor, Administrator, Office of Rail, ...

20/01/2026

17/01/2026

The Passenger Rail Crew Protection Act is a new bill that promises to make the assault or intimidation of passenger rail workers a federal crime, bringing rail protections in line with long-standing federal laws safeguarding airline flight crews. Read on to learn why SMART-TD is excited for the bill, and why it should be expanded to include bus operators as well.

https://www.smart-union.org/federal-protection-for-train-crews-promised-by-passenger-rail-crew-protection-act/

08/01/2026

Help Shape the Future of Michigan Rail Travel!

The North+South Passenger Rail Project is exploring a new intercity train service that would connect Southeast Michigan to mid-Michigan and the northwest Lower Peninsula. This proposed service would open up a new way to travel across the state, offering a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable alternative to driving while expanding access to Michigan’s vibrant communities.

As we are working through a major planning study for the route this year, we want to hear from you! Your input is essential. By completing this survey, you’ll help us understand travel needs, preferences, and priorities, ensuring that this service is designed for the people who will use it.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts and help shape Michigan’s transportation future.

Take this survey powered by surveymonkey.com. Create your own surveys for free.

12/12/2025

Amtrak’s 18,000 frontline union employees will receive a $900 bonus following a strong year for Amtrak. Recognition for the employees who keep the trains moving is long overdue after management rewarded themselves in the millions.

WASHINGTON — More than 18,000 union workers at Amtrak will receive $900 holiday bonuses to mark the company’s record year of ridership and revenue, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced. The worker bonuses announced today (Dec. 11) come as Amtrak executives have agreed to forgo 50% o...