Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen

Signalmen's Political League
Advocating for Labor Rights and Your Future

The Role of SPL — Established on January 1, 1972, the Signalmen’s Political League (SPL) serves as the political arm of the BRS. It enables our members to actively participate in the political arena, advocating for candidates and officials who support the interests of Signalmen and the wider labor movement. Considering railroads have spent over $653 million on federal lobbying in the last two decades, the necessity for effective representation in government is more critical than ever to counteract the growing sway of corporate interests over public policies.

Why Your Support Matters — In today’s political landscape, the overwhelming influence of corporate funding poses significant challenges for the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, affecting both active and retired members alike. The policies enacted by state and national lawmakers directly impact our livelihoods, pensions, and futures. Supporting the SPL is crucial — it helps counteract industrial lobbying efforts, ensuring that the voices of Signalmen influence the legislative processes vital to our craft. This support is essential in our continued efforts to advocate for and safeguard the interests of Signalmen and their families.

The BRS is committed to labor rights and our support for pro-union candidates to combat the extensive lobbying of the rail industry. Together, we can support leaders in office who are committed to labor rights and securing a prosperous future for all.

Federal law strictly prohibits labor unions from using union dues for political contributions or expenditures. (Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA), 52 U.S.C. § 30118) This law mandates that unions must establish a separate fund for political activities, which can only be funded through voluntary contributions from union members, ensuring that dues are not used for political purposes.

The challenges before us are mounting, propelled by corporate interests that increasingly influence public policy. Moving
forward, we must bolster our resolve and intensify our efforts to support policies and candidates that prioritize the well-being of our members and their families. Your participation makes a meaningful difference in this fight.

Support Worker-Friendly Candidates: Through contributions to the Signalmen’s Political League (SPL), we support political candidates who prioritize labor rights and advocate for policies that favor the working class. These efforts secure labor-friendly voices in government, ensuring that Signalmen's interests are represented against corporate influence.
Safety Regulations: Unions lobby for safety regulations to protect workers from occupational hazards, especially in high-risk industries like railroads. By influencing political decisions, unions help enact and enforce regulations that minimize risks and improve the overall safety standards within the industry.
Labor Laws: Your support enables us to shape laws that directly benefit us in the railroad sector—regulating work hours, improving compensation, and safeguarding against unfair practices. Our lobbying is essential to creating fair and safe working conditions, minimizing fatigue, and enhancing worker protections.
Collective Bargaining: The political climate can influence the extent to which rail workers can negotiate collectively. Supportive political environments bolster union bargaining power, helping to secure better wages and working conditions.
Federal Oversight: Your financial contributions are crucial in guiding the Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to adopt and enforce regulations that reflect our needs. Such oversight ensures that safety and fairness are prioritized, benefiting our day-to-day working conditions.
Railroad Retirement Board (RRB): Contributions also support our efforts to ensure that Congress adequately funds the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). This funding is critical for administering comprehensive retirement and survivor benefits, providing security for Signalmen and their families.
Funding and Infrastructure: Political decisions on transportation infrastructure funding impact rail labor by creating jobs and potentially improving the rail network. These enhancements are not just about physical upgrades but also about ensuring that these projects lead to sustained job security and better working environments for Signalmen. Our advocacy ensures that infrastructure spending aligns with the needs of our members, supporting long-term employment and safety improvements.
Counter Corporate Influence: Your donations help us combat the extensive corporate lobbying that undermines worker interests. By contributing, you ensure that the voices of Signalmen resonate in policy discussions, fostering fair labor practices and worker rights.

When Signalmen unite with a collective voice, we wield significant power. Be a part of the movement that stands up to Big Business and advocates for a just and equitable workplace. Join the SPL, and make your voice heard in shaping the policies that impact your life and the lives of your fellow brothers and sisters. Together, we can create a future that values labor rights and the welfare of working families. Your support is not just a contribution — it’s an investment in our collective future.

AFL-CIO Congressional Voting Record — The AFL-CIO Scorecard tracks how members of Congress vote on key issues impacting working people. Stay informed and engaged by regularly checking the AFL-CIO Scorecard (www.aflcio.org/scorecard) and using it to advocate for policies that support working families.