June 24, 2025 — Just hours before a scheduled House Rail Subcommittee hearing on innovation and safety technology in the freight rail industry, a Norfolk Southern train carrying hazardous materials derailed in Virginia. While no injuries were reported, the incident has reignited concerns about the industry’s push to roll back federal safety standards.
Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) President Michael Baldwin recently appeared on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to speak on pressing issues facing the rail industry. In a wide-ranging conversation, Baldwin highlighted threats to rail safety, the challenges impacting the Railroad Retirement Board, and the importance of state-level engagement in advancing safety legislation.
There has been growing concern from our members about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, commonly referred to in the media as the “Big Beautiful Bill” (BBB), currently making its way through Congress. That is because beauty is in the eye of the beholder; and the legislation looks beautiful if you are a CEO of a corporation or a silver-spoon-fed billionaire.
As part of the 12-month Roadway Maintenance Machines (RMM) focus, the FAMES Committee would like to bring your attention to lock out / tag out (LOTO). Please consider these items and anymore you can think of when working with RMMs or LOTO.
Reinforce the critical importance of adhering to LOTO procedures during RMM inspections and maintenance.
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) is prioritizing industry convenience over public safety. In newly submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, AAR is urging the repeal of long-standing federal rail safety rules, including those that govern signal system inspections under 49 CFR Parts 234 and 49 CFR Parts 236, among others.
WHEN YOU HAVE UNION BACKING – YOUR VOICE TRANSLATES INTO BETTER WAGES, BETTER HEALTH CARE, AND A MORE SECURE RETIREMENT.
Learn More About How Unions Impact Our Lives below.
Brothers Burt Baird (local 89) and Doug VanderJagt (local 123 attended the St. Baldricks Pediatric Cancer research event in Youngstown, OH, on Saturday, March 15th. Our team (The River Rats) raised over $20,000 and the event at a whole raised $56,171 for Children’s cancer research. Brother Baird Raised $8,196.14 to earn the top spot for individual donations received.
BRS MEMBERS - REGISTER FOR THE WEBSITE TO GET ACCESS TO MEMBERS ONLY CONTENT
Easily access your member profile to update your mailing address, email, and other personal contact details. The member portal helps you stay informed on important, members-only updates.
**This DOES NOT update Engage**
Registering for the member area is secure and confidential. The BRS is committed to protecting the privacy of our Union and its members. We use physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to ensure your information remains protected.
-
Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen
917 Shenandoah Shores Road
Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 622-6522
