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.
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.
A new federal budget proposal making its way through Congress is raising serious alarms for unions and public workers across the country. Nicknamed the “Big Ugly Bill” by critics, this sweeping piece of legislation includes several changes that could gut long-standing job protections for federal employees.
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WHEN YOU HAVE UNION BACKING – YOUR VOICE TRANSLATES INTO BETTER WAGES, BETTER HEALTH CARE, AND A MORE SECURE RETIREMENT.
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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
