FRONT ROYAL, VA – The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) is pleased to announce the passage of the Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act, a historic step toward restoring full unemployment and sickness benefits for more than 200,000 railroad workers and their families. The REEF Act, included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), will permanently remove these benefits from budget sequestration, ensuring that railroad workers receive the full, earned benefits they depend on during times of need.
The REEF Act eliminates nearly $100 in monthly reductions (5.7%) to benefits caused by sequestration, a practice that unfairly penalized railroaders despite the program being entirely funded through payroll taxes and surcharges paid by the railroads. Unlike other unemployment insurance programs, Railroad Unemployment Insurance is self-funded and does not rely on taxpayer dollars, meaning sequestration cuts have never contributed to reducing the federal deficit.
With the REEF Act, railroad workers and their families are spared from additional annual benefit reductions through at least 2030. These restored benefits provide critical financial stability during periods of furlough, illness, or injury, allowing workers to focus on their recovery and long-term well-being.
“The REEF Act corrects an injustice that has burdened railroad families for over a decade,” said BRS President Mike Baldwin. “This legislation reflects the power of persistence and collective action. It restores fairness and stability to an essential safety net for those who dedicate their lives to supporting the nation’s transportation system.”
The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen applauds the bipartisan, bicameral leadership of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and other congressional champions who made the passage of the REEF Act possible. Their efforts underscore the importance of standing with railroad workers and ensuring their contributions are respected and protected.
The passage of the REEF Act is a testament to the strength of solidarity and collaboration between labor, industry, and lawmakers. The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for policies that uphold the dignity, safety, and well-being of its members and all railroad workers.
“Railroad workers are the backbone of the transportation industry,” President Baldwin continued. “This victory ensures that those who work tirelessly to keep our nation moving are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.”
The BRS thanks the members for their unwavering support and engagement in this effort. This victory belongs to every Signalman who raised their voice to demand justice.
