Merger Between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Raises Major Concerns for Safety, Workforce, and Accountability
July 29, 2025 — In response to the announced merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) is raising urgent concerns about the implications for safety, transparency, and the treatment of employees across the network.
The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen is proud to announce the launch of a new education partnership with Edvance, a member benefit provider that offers union members and their families access to affordable, high-quality education options.
On a recent episode of Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen Vice President of Commuter and Passenger Services, Tim Tarrant, joined the program to discuss critical issues facing the rail industry—including growing concerns over industry-led efforts to deregulate railroad safety standards.
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.
The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) is requesting the funding it needs to continue delivering critical services, and now is the time to raise our voices and make sure Congress delivers.
During the last appropriations cycle, your outreach made a real impact, helping lawmakers understand exactly who would be affected by funding shortfalls.
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.
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Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen
917 Shenandoah Shores Road
Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 622-6522
