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# Smart Transportation Division

Sheet Metal | Air | Rail | Transportation

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [SMART-TD Illinois State Director Bob Guy Named Grand Marshal of Galesburg Labor Day Parade](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-illinois-state-director-bob-guy-named-grand-marshal-of-galesburg-labor-day-parade/)
- [SMART-TD’s 2016 legislation addressing concerns with contract carrier vehicles took effect January 1st](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-2016-legislation-addressing-concerns-with-contract-carrier-vehicles-took-effect-january-1st/)
- [SMART-TD’s SB 1681 clears first hurdle, passes out of Senate Insurance Committee unanimously](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-sb-1681-clears-first-hurdle-passes-out-of-senate-insurance-committee-unanimously/)
- [SMART-TD Illinois creates new carrier provided lodging facility report book](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-illinois-creates-new-carrier-provided-lodging-facility-report-book/)
- [FRA finds UP violated Hours of Service law after SMART-TD member not afforded off-duty period or interim release after “busted call”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-finds-up-violated-hours-of-service-law-after-smart-td-member-not-afforded-off-duty-period-or-interim-release-after-busted-call/)
- [SMART-TD’s SB 1681 clears Illinois Senate unanimously, will now head to the House](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-sb-1681-clears-illinois-senate-unanimously-will-now-head-to-the-house/)
- [SB 1681 clears House committee, contact your State Representative today and ask them to support and co-sponsor SB 1681](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sb-1681-clears-house-committee-contact-your-state-representative-today-and-ask-them-to-support-and-co-sponsor-sb-1681/)
- [SB 1681 clears Illinois House unanimously, will now go to Governor for his signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sb-1681-clears-illinois-house-unanimously-will-now-go-to-governor-for-his-signature/)
- [Illinois Labor Day parade and celebration schedule is out-Plan on joining other union members and their families for a day to celebrate your work!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-labor-day-parade-and-celebration-schedule-is-out-plan-on-joining-other-union-members-and-their-families-for-a-day-to-celebrate-your-work/)
- [SMART-TD’s Bill requiring rail carrier’s to verify contract carrier insurance coverage signed by Governor, to take effect on January 1, 2018](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-bill-requiring-rail-carriers-to-verify-contract-carrier-insurance-coverage-signed-by-governor-to-take-effect-on-january-1-2018/)
- [After two years of planning, SMART-TD Illinois conducts first ever training class for Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) disability examiners, call it Conductor 101](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/after-two-years-of-planning-smart-td-illinois-conducts-first-ever-training-class-for-railroad-retirement-board-rrb-disability-examiners-call-it-conductor-101/)
- [SMART-TD continues to lead effort to ensure proper evacuation procedures are in place at Chicago Union Station](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-continues-to-lead-effort-to-ensure-proper-evacuation-procedures-are-in-place-at-chicago-union-station/)
- [Quick action by SMART-TD LR leads to federal violations for chemical leak at Union Pacific’s Salem Yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/quick-action-by-smart-td-lr-leads-to-federal-violations-for-chemical-leak-at-union-pacifics-salem-yard/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor announces 2016 Lee Scholarships](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-announces-2016-lee-scholarships/)
- [SMART-TD Quadrennial Reorganization Meeting wraps up, two day business meeting packed with VIP speakers, Illinois History Society “wow’s” those in attendance. Guy, Ciemny, O’Brien & Draper reelected, Votteler and Nee join Exec. Board](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-quadrennial-reorganization-meeting-wraps-up-two-day-business-meeting-packed-with-vip-speakers-illinois-history-society-wows-those-in-attendance-guy-ciemny-o/)
- [SB 629, the privacy protection bill for RR workers being hauled in contract carrier vehicles, passes Illinois Senate unanimously again](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sb-629-the-privacy-protection-bill-for-rr-workers-being-hauled-in-contract-carrier-vehicles-passes-illinois-senate-unanimously-again/)
- [Will County Board passes resolution supporting FRA’s proposed two person crew rule](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/will-county-board-passes-resolution-supporting-fras-proposed-two-person-crew-rule/)
- [SMART-TD’s video-event recorder bill passes House, to go to Governor “again”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-video-event-recorder-bill-passes-house-to-go-to-governor-again/)
- [Waning days of session prove fruitful for SMART-TD as contract carrier Bill passes both legislative chambers in less than a week](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/waning-days-of-session-prove-fruitful-for-smart-td-as-contract-carrier-bill-passes-both-legislative-chambers-in-less-than-a-week/)
- [FRA to once again seek civil penalties against IAIS for a violation in conjunction with manager’s covered service](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-to-once-again-seek-civil-penalties-against-iais-for-a-violation-in-conjunction-with-managers-covered-service/)
- [SMART-TD’s contract carrier video-event recorder bill, SB 629, signed by Governor, to take effect on January 1st](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-contract-carrier-video-event-recorder-bill-sb-629-signed-by-governor-to-take-effect-on-january-1st/)
- [SMART-TD’s bill to increase minimum Uninsured/Underinsured coverage for contract carrier vehicles signed by Governor, to take effect on January 1st](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-bill-to-increase-minimum-uninsured-underinsured-coverage-for-contract-carrier-vehicles-signed-by-governor-to-take-effect-on-january-1st/)
- [FRA files numerous formal violations and one defect against CSX in manager “Pilot” incident](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-files-numerous-formal-violations-and-one-defect-against-csx-in-manager-pilot-incident/)
- [Labor Day celebrations scheduled across Illinois-Join your union brothers and sisters at an event near you](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/labor-day-celebrations-scheduled-across-illinois-join-your-union-brothers-and-sisters-at-an-event-near-you/)
- [SMART-TD Illinois assigned to assist RRB Labor member’s office in project to train agency’s disability examiners](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-illinois-assigned-to-assist-rrb-labor-members-office-in-project-to-train-agencys-disability-examiners/)
- [Illinois Labor History Society (ILHS) honors one of SMART-TD’s (UTU) own at annual honors dinner](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-labor-history-society-ilhs-honors-one-of-smart-tds-utu-own-at-annual-honors-dinner/)
- [Applications now available for Chicago Federation of Labor’s 2017 William A. Lee Memorial Scholarships](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/applications-now-available-for-chicago-federation-of-labors-2017-william-a-lee-memorial-scholarships/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor announces 2015 Lee Scholarships](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-announces-2015-lee-scholarships/)
- [Keeping our state competitive: U of I study documents the false promise of “Right-to-Work” (for less) laws](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/keeping-our-state-competitive-u-of-i-study-documents-the-false-promise-of-right-to-work-for-less-laws/)
- [SMART-TD introduces legislation to raise insurance coverage on contract-carrier vehicles to $1 million](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-introduces-legislation-to-raise-insurance-coverage-on-contract-carrier-vehicles-to-1-million/)
- [Amtrak names Chicago Control Center after former FRA and UTU-Illinois chief Szabo](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-names-chicago-control-center-after-former-fra-and-utu-illinois-chief-szabo/)
- [Action Alert! Call your state rep and ask for a “Yes” vote on House Bill 439](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/action-alert-call-your-state-rep-and-ask-for-a-yes-vote-on-house-bill-439/)
- [SMART-TD legislation would bar carriers from turning crew-van cameras against crews](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-legislation-would-bar-carriers-from-turning-crew-van-cameras-against-crews/)
- [HB 439, bill raising insurance coverage in crew vans, passes House by wide margin](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hb-439-bill-raising-insurance-coverage-in-crew-vans-passes-house-by-wide-margin/)
- [Illinois Senate passes SB 1834 unanimously](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-senate-passes-sb-1834-unanimously/)
- [SMART-TD, other unions, health advocates, assemble to protest safety hazards at Rochelle railcar plant](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-other-unions-health-advocates-assemble-to-protest-safety-hazards-at-rochelle-railcar-plant/)
- [SMART-TD's contract-carrier insurance bill sweeps Senate 51-0, would take effect Jan. 1](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-tds-contract-carrier-insurance-bill-sweeps-senate-51-0-would-take-effect-jan-1/)
- [Video-recorder protection for crews in contract vans sweeps House 112-0](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/video-recorder-protection-for-crews-in-contract-vans-sweeps-house-112-0-2/)
- [Guy joins Durbin, Davis, Manar and other union activists at rededication of Mother Jones monument](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/guy-joins-durbin-davis-manar-and-other-union-activists-at-rededication-of-mother-jones-monument/)
- [FRA to seek civil penalties against IAIS for letting trainmaster play conductor](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-to-seek-civil-penalties-against-iais-for-letting-trainmaster-play-conductor/)
- [FRA finds CN violated Hours of Service Law when crews were started at remote points without proper deadhead allowance](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-finds-cn-violated-hours-of-service-law-when-crews-were-started-at-remote-points-without-proper-deadhead-allowance/)
- [Here's your schedule of Labor Day Celebrations across Illinois--Let's all turn out and show Gov. Rauner we're standing up for workers statewide](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/heres-your-schedule-of-labor-day-celebrations-across-illinois-lets-all-turn-out-and-show-gov-rauner-were-standing-up-for-workers-statewide/)
- [SOFA 2015 Third Quarter Report: Continued training and mentoring of inexperienced employees as important as ever in switching operations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sofa-2015-third-quarter-report-continued-training-and-mentoring-of-inexperienced-employees-as-important-as-ever-in-switching-operations/)
- [Illinois Commerce Commission acts promptly after SMART-TD complaint, catches Alton & Southern installing protruding junction boxes in middle of yard walkways](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-commerce-commission-acts-promptly-after-smart-td-complaint-catches-alton-southern-installing-protruding-junction-boxes-in-middle-of-yard-walkways/)
- [Alarmed SMART-TD members drive fire-safety reform at Chicago Union Station](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/alarmed-smart-td-members-drive-fire-safety-reform-at-chicago-union-station/)
- [Pilot error: After SMART-TD tip, FRA cites Union Pacific for assigning unqualified manager to serve as a pilot](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/pilot-error-after-smart-td-tip-fra-cites-union-pacific-for-assigning-unqualified-manager-to-serve-as-a-pilot/)
- [SOFA 4th Quarter report shows sudden fatality spike](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sofa-4th-quarter-report-shows-sudden-fatality-spike/)
- [SOFA 4th quarter report shows 2013 with lowest switching-fatality count ever; Guy credits increasing professionalism of crews](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sofa-4th-quarter-report-shows-2013-with-lowest-switching-fatality-count-ever-guy-credits-increasing-professionalism-of-crews/)
- [Making our state competitive: U of I study documents the false promise of “Right-to-Work” (for less) laws](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/making-our-state-competitive-u-of-i-study-documents-the-false-promise-of-right-to-work-for-less-laws/)
- [Illinois Legislative board brings government, railroads and shipper together to address poor walkway conditions in Granite City steel mill](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-legislative-board-brings-government-railroads-and-shipper-together-to-address-poor-walkway-conditions-in-granite-city-steel-mill/)
- [Your State Senators are home in the district—ask them to support SJR50, which urges Congress to pass The Safe Freight Act](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/your-state-senators-are-home-in-the-district-ask-them-to-support-sjr50-which-urges-congress-to-pass-the-safe-freight-act/)
- [After SMART-TD complaint, FRA cites CSX for bungling post-accident investigation and crew drug test](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/after-smart-td-complaint-fra-cites-csx-for-bungling-post-accident-investigation-and-crew-drug-test/)
- [Big photo exhibit shows your grandfather’s railroad was a lot different from yours—yet still the same](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/big-photo-exhibit-shows-your-grandfathers-railroad-was-a-lot-different-from-yours-yet-still-the-same/)
- [Illinois voters agree with SMART-TD on 2-person crews, Amtrak](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-voters-agree-with-smart-td-on-2-person-crews-amtrak/)
- [ACTION ALERT: SJR50 moves to Illinois House; calls needed to House members to ask for support for SJR50](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/action-alert-sjr50-moves-to-illinois-house-calls-needed-to-house-members-to-ask-for-support-for-sjr50/)
- [SJR50 passes Illinois House after SMART-TD members take to phone lines](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sjr50-passes-illinois-house-after-smart-td-members-take-to-phone-lines/)
- [SMART-TD Hours of Service Complaint leads FRA to cite BNSF for violations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-hours-of-service-complaint-leads-fra-to-cite-bnsf-for-violations/)
- [Video-recorder protection for crews in contract vans sweeps House 112-0](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/video-recorder-protection-for-crews-in-contract-vans-sweeps-house-112-0/)
- [FRA sustains another SMART-TD HOS complaint, cites CN for violation this time](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-sustains-another-smart-td-hos-complaint-cites-cn-for-violation-this-time/)
- [FRA confirms SMART-TD'S appeal for air tests at Decatur](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-confirms-smart-tds-appeal-for-air-tests-at-decatur/)
- [Labor-Industry coalition organized by SMART-TD secures House resolution urging EPA restraint on closing coal-fired power plants](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/labor-industry-coalition-organized-by-smart-td-secures-house-resolution-urging-epa-restraint-on-closing-coal-fired-power-plants/)
- [2nd Quarter SOFA report shows rail workers continuing excellent safety work in switching operations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/2nd-quarter-sofa-report-shows-rail-workers-continuing-excellent-safety-work-in-switching-operations/)
- [FRA finds UP guilty of 6 HOS violations after SMART-TD complaint](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-finds-up-guilty-of-6-hos-violations-after-smart-td-complaint/)
- [Labor Day celebrations scheduled all across state—Bring the family to the one near you](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/labor-day-celebrations-scheduled-all-across-state-bring-the-family-to-the-one-near-you/)
- [UP caught again violating Hours of Service Law in Southern Illinois](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/up-caught-again-violating-hours-of-service-law-in-southern-illinois/)
- [FRA recommends civil penalties after SMART-TD charges Canadian Pacific dispatched train without required hazmat documents](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-recommends-civil-penalties-after-smart-td-charges-canadian-pacific-dispatched-train-without-required-hazmat-documents/)
- [In a letter to SLD Guy, Gov. Quinn supports two-person crews and federal legislation that would require it](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/in-a-letter-to-sld-guy-gov-quinn-supports-two-person-crews-and-federal-legislation-that-would-require-it/)
- [Durbin, Quinn lead list of SMART-TD 2014 candidate endorsements](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-quinn-lead-list-of-smart-td-2014-candidate-endorsements/)
- [Illinois AFL-CIO unanimously approves resolution supporting 2-person crews](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-afl-cio-unanimously-approves-resolution-supporting-2-person-crews/)
- [SLD Guy to members: “I voted early already and now you can too”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sld-guy-to-members-i-voted-early-already-and-now-you-can-too/)
- [Guy appoints Ciemny to Chicago Federation of Labor’s organizing committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/guy-appoints-ciemny-to-chicago-federation-of-labors-organizing-committee/)
- [Local #1402 teams with Illinois Legislative Board, Illinois Commerce Commission to get action on UP yard walkways in Dupo and Madison](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/local-1402-teams-with-illinois-legislative-board-illinois-commerce-commission-to-get-action-on-up-yard-walkways-in-dupo-and-madison/)
- [Commemorate a fellow union member or a loved one and support organized labor at the same time: Put a brick on it at the Fairgrounds in Springfield](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/commemorate-a-fellow-union-member-or-a-loved-one-and-support-organized-labor-at-the-same-time-put-a-brick-on-it-at-the-fairgrounds-in-springfield/)
- [UTU introduces legislation to keep parades off the tracks](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-introduces-legislation-to-keep-parades-off-the-tracks/)
- [Membership Alert: Call your state representative today, ask for a “YES” vote on HB 3255](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-call-your-state-representative-today-ask-for-a-yes-vote-on-hb-3255/)
- [House passes UTU-sponsored “parade bill” unanimously](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-passes-utu-sponsored-parade-bill-unanimously/)
- [National Train Day busting out all over Illinois May 11](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/national-train-day-busting-out-all-over-illinois-may-11/)
- [At Durbin’s urging, owner of old Chicago Post Office agrees to update fans that ventilate Union Station](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/at-durbins-urging-owner-of-old-chicago-post-office-agrees-to-update-fans-that-ventilate-union-station/)
- [Action Alert: Call your state senator—ask for “Yes” vote on “parade bill” HB 3255](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/action-alert-call-your-state-senator-ask-for-yes-vote-on-parade-bill-hb-3255/)
- [UTU “Parade bill” clears Senate unanimously, will await governor’s signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-parade-bill-clears-senate-unanimously-will-await-governors-signature/)
- [SOFA study says switching fatalities still declining…but summer accident peak is coming](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sofa-study-says-switching-fatalities-still-decliningbut-summer-accident-peak-is-coming/)
- [After trainee nearly falls from bridge, UTU gets walkway and railings installed](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/after-trainee-nearly-falls-from-bridge-utu-gets-walkway-and-railings-installed/)
- [FRA and Illinois Commerce Commission investigating Harbor’s directive ordering yard crews to eat lunch on engine](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-and-illinois-commerce-commission-investigating-harbors-directive-ordering-yard-crews-to-eat-lunch-on-engine/)
- [Rally at Palmer House noon Aug. 8 to protest ALEC’s corporate hijacking of democracy](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/rally-at-palmer-house-noon-aug-8-to-protest-alecs-corporate-hijacking-of-democracy/)
- [Guy named to Surface Transportation Board’s energy-transportation panel](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/guy-named-to-surface-transportation-boards-energy-transportation-panel/)
- [FRA ratchets up Metra oversight after Durbin cites safety concerns](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-ratchets-up-metra-oversight-after-durbin-cites-safety-concerns/)
- [HB 3255—the “Parade Bill” sponsored by UTU--signed into law by Gov. Quinn](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hb-3255-the-parade-bill-sponsored-by-utu-signed-into-law-by-gov-quinn/)
- [Labor Day is bustin’ out all over: Here’s your statewide schedule of events](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/labor-day-is-bustin-out-all-over-heres-your-statewide-schedule-of-events/)
- [llinois Commerce Commission responds to UTU complaint, confirms seven CSX viaducts in Chicago will need safety improvements](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/llinois-commerce-commission-responds-to-utu-complaint-confirms-seven-csx-viaducts-in-chicago-will-need-safety-improvements/)
- [SOFA study shows switching accidents, including fatalities, continue to fall as safety culture works its way deeper into members' attitudes](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sofa-study-shows-switching-accidents-including-fatalities-continue-to-fall-as-safety-culture-works-its-way-deeper-into-members-attitudes/)
- [Mathes leads Local #1402 in joining Central Labor Council to add muscle to legislative campaign](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/mathes-leads-local-1402-in-joining-central-labor-council-to-add-muscle-to-legislative-campaign/)
- [Draper elected to succeed Crippin as Alternate State Legislative Director](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/draper-elected-to-succeed-crippin-as-alternate-state-legislative-director/)
- [UTU’s Blomgren joins Gov. Quinn as he announces $3 million for Rockford multi-modal station](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utus-blomgren-joins-gov-quinn-as-he-announces-3-million-for-rockford-multi-modal-station/)
- [Over 200 passenger employees attend FRA/labor briefing on new Hours of Service Rule](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/over-200-passenger-employees-attend-fra-labor-briefing-on-new-hours-of-service-rule/)
- [Decatur UTU local occupies Indiana State House to protest “right to work”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/decatur-utu-local-occupies-indiana-state-house-to-protest-right-to-work/)
- [Local #432 Legislative Representative Grady Crippin named to new labor-education board at U of I](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/local-432-legislative-representative-grady-crippin-named-to-new-labor-education-board-at-u-of-i/)
- [FRA rules BNSF violated Hours of Service law when it called employee back to work without mandated 48 hours off duty](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-rules-bnsf-violated-hours-of-service-law-when-it-called-employee-back-to-work-without-mandated-48-hours-off-duty/)
- [UTU Quadrennial Reorganization Meeting elects Guy to first full term as legislative director, 5 others elected to statewide posts--Szabo shines as keynote speaker and group honors Holman and Kortum for their many years of UTU service](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-quadrennial-reorganization-meeting-elects-guy-to-first-full-term-as-legislative-director-5-others-elected-to-statewide-posts-szabo-shines-as-keynote-speaker-and-group-honors-holman-and-kortum-fo/)
- [Quadrennial Re-Org winds up with FRA briefing, reception for legislators, new faces](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/quadrennial-re-org-winds-up-with-fra-briefing-reception-for-legislators-new-faces/)
- [Tell Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels how you feel about his new “Right-to-Work” law at big rally in Champaign April 19](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/tell-indiana-gov-mitch-daniels-how-you-feel-about-his-new-right-to-work-law-at-big-rally-in-champaign-april-19/)
- [National Train Day at Chicago Union Station Saturday May 12](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/national-train-day-at-chicago-union-station-saturday-may-12/)
- [UTU members from around the state converge on Champaign to protest Mitch Daniels](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-members-from-around-the-state-converge-on-champaign-to-protest-mitch-daniels/)
- [Summer is a bummer for switching accidents--stay cool and safe on the job](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/summer-is-a-bummer-for-switching-accidents-stay-cool-and-safe-on-the-job/)
- [FRA announces Website to help railroaders stay alert on the job, sleep better at home and on the road](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-announces-website-to-help-railroaders-stay-alert-on-the-job-sleep-better-at-home-and-on-the-road/)
- [Illinois Legislative Board opens Facebook page for instant alerts and updates](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-legislative-board-opens-facebook-page-for-instant-alerts-and-updates/)
- [Governor Quinn appoints Guy to Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/governor-quinn-appoints-guy-to-midwest-interstate-passenger-rail-commission/)
- [BNSF addresses Galesburg Yard footing conditions after UTU local expresses members’ concerns](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bnsf-addresses-galesburg-yard-footing-conditions-after-utu-local-expresses-members-concerns/)
- [Amtrak sets yet another yearly ridership record while Romney, GOP cry for cuts](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-sets-yet-another-yearly-ridership-record-while-romney-gop-cry-for-cuts/)
- [President Obama, key congressional races highlight UTU Illinois Legislative Board 2012 Election endorsements, Board urges members to vote early](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/president-obama-key-congressional-races-highlight-utu-illinois-legislative-board-2012-election-endorsements-board-urges-members-to-vote-early/)
- [Early voting is open next two weeks—Guy says, “Use it!”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/early-voting-is-open-next-two-weeks-guy-says-use-it/)
- [VIP train hits 111 mph as Durbin, LaHood, Quinn, Szabo, Carper and Guy celebrate](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/vip-train-hits-111-mph-as-durbin-lahood-quinn-szabo-carper-and-guy-celebrate/)
- [UTU-endorsed candidates successful on Election Day](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-endorsed-candidates-successful-on-election-day/)
- [Stop, thief! Passenger conductor grabs would-be train robber, fellow railroaders rush to help, hold assailant on platform till police arrive](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/stop-thief-passenger-conductor-grabs-would-be-train-robber-fellow-railroaders-rush-to-help-hold-assailant-on-platform-till-police-arrive/)
- [Szabo announces FRA will adopt UP’s successful “Courage to Care” program to end electronic distraction among rail crews](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-announces-fra-will-adopt-ups-successful-courage-to-care-program-to-end-electronic-distraction-among-rail-crews/)
- [Winter is accident time: Stay alert, stay warm, and stay safe](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/winter-is-accident-time-stay-alert-stay-warm-and-stay-safe/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor announces Lee Scholarships for 2013](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-announces-lee-scholarships-for-2013/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor to offer William A. Lee scholarships to children of Chicago-area union members](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-to-offer-william-a-lee-scholarships-to-children-of-chicago-area-union-members/)
- [UTU proud to join Congressman Dan Lipinski at U.S. House T&I Committee “Listening Session”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-proud-to-join-congressman-dan-lipinski-at-u-s-house-ti-committee-listening-session/)
- [UTU introduces two pieces of legislation to address member-driven initiatives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-introduces-two-pieces-of-legislation-to-address-member-driven-initiatives/)
- [UTU first-aid kit bill reported out of House committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-first-aid-kit-bill-reported-out-of-house-committee/)
- [Help stop the assault on workers’ rights! Join statewide rallies the week of April 4-9](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/help-stop-the-assault-on-workers-rights-join-statewide-rallies-the-week-of-april-4-9/)
- [“A Tale of Two Governors” shows PBS viewers how Gov. Quinn’s Illinois remains ahead of Wisconsin in high-speed rail race](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/a-tale-of-two-governors-shows-pbs-viewers-how-gov-quinns-illinois-remains-ahead-of-wisconsin-in-high-speed-rail-race/)
- [UTU first-aid kit bill clears House unanimously](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-first-aid-kit-bill-clears-house-unanimously/)
- [UTU members—plus families--join “We Are One” Loop rally for union rights](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-members-plus-families-join-we-are-one-loop-rally-for-union-rights/)
- [National Train Day this Saturday at Chicago Union Station](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/national-train-day-this-saturday-at-chicago-union-station/)
- [First-aid-kit bill approved unanimously by Senate Transportation Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/first-aid-kit-bill-approved-unanimously-by-senate-transportation-committee/)
- [First-aid kit bill clears Senate unanimously, will head to governor for signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/first-aid-kit-bill-clears-senate-unanimously-will-head-to-governor-for-signature/)
- [Quinn: State will partner with U of I to study 220-mph Chicago-Champaign passenger rail line; UTU to have spot on advisory panel](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/quinn-state-will-partner-with-u-of-i-to-study-220-mph-chicago-champaign-passenger-rail-line-utu-to-have-spot-on-advisory-panel/)
- [FRA recommends Alton & Southern be fined for HOS violation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-recommends-alton-southern-be-fined-for-hos-violation/)
- [Metra to post employee-assault warning signs in response to UTU legislation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/metra-to-post-employee-assault-warning-signs-in-response-to-utu-legislation/)
- [Gov. Quinn makes UTU’s first-aid kit campaign a law](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-quinn-makes-utus-first-aid-kit-campaign-a-law/)
- [Labor Day 2011: Parades, picnics and protests all across Illinois on summer’s last big weekend](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/labor-day-2011-parades-picnics-and-protests-all-across-illinois-on-summers-last-big-weekend/)
- [Rally at Union Station Tuesday to tell Congress: “Don’t X Transit!”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/rally-at-union-station-tuesday-to-tell-congress-dont-x-transit/)
- [FRA Railroad Labor Town Hall Discussion](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-railroad-labor-town-hall-discussion/)
- [Fine likely for Union Pacific after crew held beyond Hours of Service for unnecessary drug-and-alcohol test](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fine-likely-for-union-pacific-after-crew-held-beyond-hours-of-service-for-unnecessary-drug-and-alcohol-test/)
- [Crew vans to have first-aid kits January 1—Up to 1 dozen items to be stocked](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/crew-vans-to-have-first-aid-kits-january-1-up-to-1-dozen-items-to-be-stocked/)
- [Amtrak now fastest-growing mode of travel in U.S., but GOP still wants to kill it](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-now-fastest-growing-mode-of-travel-in-u-s-but-gop-still-wants-to-kill-it/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor to offer scholarships to children of Chicago-area union members](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-to-offer-scholarships-to-children-of-chicago-area-union-members-2/)
- [Illinois Legislative Board Issues 2010 candidate endorsements](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-legislative-board-issues-2010-candidate-endorsements/)
- [FRA recommends TRRA be fined after ordering switchman to operate RCL without vision, hearing tests](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-recommends-trra-be-fined-after-ordering-switchman-to-operate-rcl-without-vision-hearing-tests/)
- [After 2 years, 2 injuries and UTU Complaint to Illinois Commerce Commission, UP repairs Bloomington Yard walkway hazards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/after-2-years-2-injuries-and-utu-complaint-to-illinois-commerce-commission-up-repairs-bloomington-yard-walkway-hazards/)
- [FRA once again recommends fines against TRRA](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-once-again-recommends-fines-against-trra/)
- [UTU Local #1290 officers and members help fix crew-assignment plan after Metra gets its math wrong](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-local-1290-officers-and-members-help-fix-crew-assignment-plan-after-metra-gets-its-math-wrong/)
- [UTU’s get-tough-on-vandalism legislation passes House committee with dozens of co-sponsors](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utus-get-tough-on-vandalism-legislation-passes-house-committee-with-dozens-of-co-sponsors/)
- [HB 4987 passes House unanimously—Guy thanks members for action on anti-prank legislation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hb-4987-passes-house-unanimously-guy-thanks-members-for-action-on-anti-prank-legislation/)
- [Delta blues to be theme of National Train Day in Chicago](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/delta-blues-to-be-theme-of-national-train-day-in-chicago/)
- [Bucking the recession, Amtrak ridership—including Illinois trains—headed for record](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bucking-the-recession-amtrak-ridership-including-illinois-trains-headed-for-record/)
- [HB 4987, anti-RR-prank bill clears Senate committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hb-4987-anti-rr-prank-bill-clears-senate-committee/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT: CONTACT YOUR STATE SENATOR FOR ACTION ON HB 4987](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-contact-your-state-senator-for-action-on-hb-4987/)
- [HB 4987 passes Senate unanimously, heads to governor for signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hb-4987-passes-senate-unanimously-heads-to-governor-for-signature/)
- [Two UTU-PAC champs in one state—and it’s Illinois!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/two-utu-pac-champs-in-one-state-and-its-illinois/)
- [State Rep. Eddie Washington, only UTU member in General Assembly, dead at 56](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-rep-eddie-washington-only-utu-member-in-general-assembly-dead-at-56/)
- [OSHA finds Iowa Interstate RR violated Federal Rail Safety Act](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/osha-finds-iowa-interstate-rr-violated-federal-rail-safety-act/)
- [Locals seeking updated member address info as UTU ramps up for 2010 Get Out The Vote drive](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/locals-seeking-updated-member-address-info-as-utu-ramps-up-for-2010-get-out-the-vote-drive/)
- [Strike three!--Feds sustain UTU’s third complaint against TRRA in less than a year](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/strike-three-feds-sustain-utus-third-complaint-against-trra-in-less-than-a-year/)
- [UTU, Rail Labor to participate in Rail Themed Exhibit at 2010 Illinois State Fair](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-rail-labor-to-participate-in-rail-themed-exhibit-at-2010-illinois-state-fair/)
- [Governor Quinn signs RR anti-prank bill, HB 4987](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/governor-quinn-signs-rr-anti-prank-bill-hb-4987/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor holding Labor Day fest in Millennium Park—Call UTU for tickets](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-holding-labor-day-fest-in-millennium-park-call-utu-for-tickets/)
- [Railroad Retirement at 75: Could this be the nation’s most successful pension plan?](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/railroad-retirement-at-75-could-this-be-the-nations-most-successful-pension-plan/)
- [Giannoulias, Quinn head UTU Illinois Legislative Board’s endorsement list for 2010 General Election](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/giannoulias-quinn-head-utu-illinois-legislative-boards-endorsement-list-for-2010-general-election/)
- [Membership Alert: Early Voting is under way--you can cast your vote now, and don’t forget to support UTU-endorsed candidates!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-early-voting-is-under-way-you-can-cast-your-vote-now-and-dont-forget-to-support-utu-endorsed-candidates/)
- [Amtrak sets new ridership record as 28.7 million take to the rails—Midwest corridor trains among growth leaders](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-sets-new-ridership-record-as-28-7-million-take-to-the-rails-midwest-corridor-trains-among-growth-leaders/)
- [UTU-endorsed candidates win 110 out of 129 races across state (but some good friends didn’t make it)](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-endorsed-candidates-win-110-out-of-129-races-across-state-but-some-good-friends-didnt-make-it/)
- [Member survey shows Rapid Response gets results, while providing cost efficient member-to-member communication](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/member-survey-shows-rapid-response-gets-results-while-providing-cost-efficient-member-to-member-communication/)
- [Acting on UTU complaint, FRA to fine TRRA for failing to track employee injuries](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/acting-on-utu-complaint-fra-to-fine-trra-for-failing-to-track-employee-injuries/)
- [Quiet, behind-the-scenes negotiation and communication solves problem of changing crew-reporting location at CP’s Bensenville Yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/quiet-behind-the-scenes-negotiation-and-communication-solves-problem-of-changing-crew-reporting-location-at-cps-bensenville-yard/)
- [Bob Guy named Acting Illinois Legislative Director, Szabo summoned to Washington to assist new National Legislative Director following death of Brokenrail](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bob-guy-named-acting-illinois-legislative-director-szabo-summoned-to-washington-to-assist-new-national-legislative-director-following-death-of-brokenrail/)
- [Amtrak board names former Macomb Mayor and longtime UTU friend Tom Carper chairman](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-board-names-former-macomb-mayor-and-longtime-utu-friend-tom-carper-chairman/)
- [U.S. Appeals Court upholds Illinois Safe Walkway Rule](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/u-s-appeals-court-upholds-illinois-safe-walkway-rule/)
- [Durbin convenes meeting of state leaders to tout high-speed rail development](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-convenes-meeting-of-state-leaders-to-tout-high-speed-rail-development/)
- [President Obama formally nominates Szabo for FRA Administrator](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/president-obama-formally-nominates-szabo-for-fra-administrator/)
- [UTU’s Szabo takes next step in U.S. Senate comfirmation process](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utus-szabo-takes-next-step-in-u-s-senate-comfirmation-process/)
- [Senate unanimously confirms Szabo to FRA administrator post](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/senate-unanimously-confirms-szabo-to-fra-administrator-post/)
- [2009 legislative session a successful one for UTU](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/2009-legislative-session-a-successful-one-for-utu/)
- [Guy appointed Vice President of Illinois AFL-CIO](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/guy-appointed-vice-president-of-illinois-afl-cio/)
- [FRA cites Iowa Interstate after close call between train and MOW machine](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-iowa-interstate-after-close-call-between-train-and-mow-machine/)
- [Illinois rail projects net $850 million as Gov. Quinn signs capital bills](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-rail-projects-net-850-million-as-gov-quinn-signs-capital-bills/)
- [UTU PAC Leaders recognized and awarded with "storytelling" T-Shirts](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-pac-leaders-recognized-and-awarded-with-storytelling-t-shirts/)
- [Gov. Quinn to address Labor Day celebration in Historic Pullman, the place where rail-labor history was born](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-quinn-to-address-labor-day-celebration-in-historic-pullman-the-place-where-rail-labor-history-was-born/)
- [Metra conductor Mark Azzi voted new Alternate State Legislative Director](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/metra-conductor-mark-azzi-voted-new-alternate-state-legislative-director/)
- [Guy appointed to Midwest High-Speed Rail Steering Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/guy-appointed-to-midwest-high-speed-rail-steering-committee/)
- [UTU-led effort results in updated sanitation and shelter standards for crew facilities](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-led-effort-results-in-updated-sanitation-and-shelter-standards-for-crew-facilities/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor to offer scholarships to children of Chicago-area union members](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-to-offer-scholarships-to-children-of-chicago-area-union-members/)
- [Amtrak and IDOT release study for Quad Cities startup](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-and-idot-release-study-for-quad-cities-startup/)
- [FRA says UTU was right: BNSF violated Utility Employee Rule at Corwith Yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-says-utu-was-right-bnsf-violated-utility-employee-rule-at-corwith-yard/)
- [Early voting now open; vote early and support UTU-endorsed candidates!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/early-voting-now-open-vote-early-and-support-utu-endorsed-candidates/)
- [Durbin meets with UP CEO, demands improvements on Chicago-St. Louis Amtrak line](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-meets-with-up-ceo-demands-improvements-on-chicago-st-louis-amtrak-line/)
- [Sen. Durbin asks Surface Transportation Board to demand conditions before allowing CN to buy EJ&E—Impact on Amtrak service, suburban communities and Metra could be negative](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sen-durbin-asks-surface-transportation-board-to-demand-conditions-before-allowing-cn-to-buy-eje-impact-on-amtrak-service-suburban-communities-and-metra-could-be-negative/)
- [FRA to fine Union Pacific for dispatching extended-haul train with “crew only” inspection of added cars](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-to-fine-union-pacific-for-dispatching-extended-haul-train-with-crew-only-inspection-of-added-cars/)
- [FRA cites Amtrak for Hours of Service Violation following UTU Complaint](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-amtrak-for-hours-of-service-violation-following-utu-complaint/)
- [Szabo elected to 4th term as Illinois Legislative Director; Guy re-elected to serve first full term as Assistant Director](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-elected-to-4th-term-as-illinois-legislative-director-guy-re-elected-to-serve-first-full-term-as-assistant-director/)
- [Big bi-partisan turnout as state legislators salute UTU, honor retiring Assistant Legislative Director John Burner after two-day Quadrennial Meeting focused on training of UTU local legislative reps](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/big-bi-partisan-turnout-as-state-legislators-salute-utu-honor-retiring-assistant-legislative-director-john-burner-after-two-day-quadrennial-meeting-focused-on-training-of-utu-local-legislative-reps/)
- [House Rail Committee moves legislation to give Illinois State Police review power over railroad police](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-rail-committee-moves-legislation-to-give-illinois-state-police-review-power-over-railroad-police/)
- [Former Macomb Mayor Tom Carper confirmed to Amtrak board](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/former-macomb-mayor-tom-carper-confirmed-to-amtrak-board/)
- [UTU Complaint results in another Hours of Service citation against Amtrak, BNSF](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-complaint-results-in-another-hours-of-service-citation-against-amtrak-bnsf/)
- [Membership Alert: Call your State Rep now and ask for support of HB 5159](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-call-your-state-rep-now-and-ask-for-support-of-hb-5159/)
- [Membership Alert: H.B. 5159 is out of Committee and headed to floor—your phone calls are needed NOW](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-h-b-5159-is-out-of-committee-and-headed-to-floor-your-phone-calls-are-needed-now/)
- [Amtrak CEO invites UTU members to celebrate a new holiday--National Train Day--at Chicago Union Station May 10](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-ceo-invites-utu-members-to-celebrate-a-new-holiday-national-train-day-at-chicago-union-station-may-10/)
- [House passes bill to give Illinois State Police review power over railroad police--H.B. 5159 now moves to Senate](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-passes-bill-to-give-illinois-state-police-review-power-over-railroad-police-h-b-5159-now-moves-to-senate/)
- [H.B. 5159, the RR Police amendments passes out of Committee, moves to Senate Floor for final vote](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/h-b-5159-the-rr-police-amendments-passes-out-of-committee-moves-to-senate-floor-for-final-vote/)
- [Railroad police reform amendment passes Senate 35-17, referred back to House for Concurrence Vote](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/railroad-police-reform-amendment-passes-senate-35-17-referred-back-to-house-for-concurrence-vote/)
- [General Assembly adjourns without acting on RR police reform bill; measure on hold until fall veto session. Szabo says all options are open](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/general-assembly-adjourns-without-acting-on-rr-police-reform-bill-measure-on-hold-until-fall-veto-session-szabo-says-all-options-are-open/)
- [CN agrees to fine and Cease & Desist order after ICC finds carrier interfered with state safety inspection](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/cn-agrees-to-fine-and-cease-desist-order-after-icc-finds-carrier-interfered-with-state-safety-inspection/)
- [Labor again has a voice on Metra board—CFL’s counsel Widmer appointed unanimously to 4-year term](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/labor-again-has-a-voice-on-metra-board-cfls-counsel-widmer-appointed-unanimously-to-4-year-term/)
- [Illinois labor joins broad coalition to oppose new constitutional convention—UTU says changes could endanger rights of Metra employees](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-labor-joins-broad-coalition-to-oppose-new-constitutional-convention-utu-says-changes-could-endanger-rights-of-metra-employees/)
- [FRA fines IHB for failure to include yardmasters performing “covered service” in drug testing pool](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-fines-ihb-for-failure-to-include-yardmasters-performing-covered-service-in-drug-testing-pool/)
- [Amtrak says Illinois trains will keep running despite proposed state budget cuts. Szabo says “Now is not the time to cut the nation’s most successful state-supported passenger-train program”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-says-illinois-trains-will-keep-running-despite-proposed-state-budget-cuts-szabo-says-now-is-not-the-time-to-cut-the-nations-most-successful-state-supported-passenger-train-pr/)
- [Governor restores full funding for state-supported Amtrak trains—Service continues on all lines without interruption as all three Downstate corridors sell out for holiday](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/governor-restores-full-funding-for-state-supported-amtrak-trains-service-continues-on-all-lines-without-interruption-as-all-three-downstate-corridors-sell-out-for-holiday/)
- [Durbin, Kummant plan “summit” to find more rolling stock for Ill. Amtrak trains—five rehabbed coaches hinted as short-term solution to sold-out seats](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-kummant-plan-summit-to-find-more-rolling-stock-for-ill-amtrak-trains-five-rehabbed-coaches-hinted-as-short-term-solution-to-sold-out-seats/)
- [Conductor starts his own UTU-PAC drive and boosts local’s contributions 30%--Szabo says, “Here’s a member who understands the value of our PAC – he didn’t wait to be told, he acted”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/conductor-starts-his-own-utu-pac-drive-and-boosts-locals-contributions-30-szabo-says-heres-a-member-who-understands-the-value-of-our-pac-he-didnt-wait-t/)
- [Durbin calls for 1/4-cent of Federal Motor Fuel Tax diversion for passenger railcar construction so Amtrak and states can commit to long-range service expansions](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-calls-for-1-4-cent-of-federal-motor-fuel-tax-diversion-for-passenger-railcar-construction-so-amtrak-and-states-can-commit-to-long-range-service-expansions/)
- [Durbin heads UTU slate as Illinois Legislative Board issues its 2008 election endorsements—Register now so you can vote for him and for other UTU-endorsed candidates!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-heads-utu-slate-as-illinois-legislative-board-issues-its-2008-election-endorsements-register-now-so-you-can-vote-for-him-and-for-other-utu-endorsed-candidates/)
- [See one of rail labor’s most sacred shrines—and visit proud homeowners in their vintage town houses—at the Historic Pullman Annual House Tour Oct. 11 and 12](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/see-one-of-rail-labors-most-sacred-shrines-and-visit-proud-homeowners-in-their-vintage-town-houses-at-the-historic-pullman-annual-house-tour-oct-11-and-12/)
- [Historic Pullman: The one right place to celebrate Labor Day](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/historic-pullman-the-one-right-place-to-celebrate-labor-day/)
- [Congress adopts Illinois language in new rail-safety bill prohibiting carriers from interfering with employee medical treatment; State also to benefit from Amtrak Reauthorization.](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/congress-adopts-illinois-language-in-new-rail-safety-bill-prohibiting-carriers-from-interfering-with-employee-medical-treatment-state-also-to-benefit-from-amtrak-reauthorization/)
- [Carrigan re-elected to head state AFL-CIO, Szabo elected to 4-year VP term, Guy invited to tell delegates the “how-to’s” of UTU’s successful legislative program](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/carrigan-re-elected-to-head-state-afl-cio-szabo-elected-to-4-year-vp-term-guy-invited-to-tell-delegates-the-how-tos-of-utus-successful-legislative-program/)
- [FRA recommends fine after sustaining third Complaint against Amtrak for Hours of Service violation on California Zephyr](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-recommends-fine-after-sustaining-third-complaint-against-amtrak-for-hours-of-service-violation-on-california-zephyr/)
- [FRA recommends Amtrak be fined after supervisors hold crew for interrogation beyond 12-hour limit](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-recommends-amtrak-be-fined-after-supervisors-hold-crew-for-interrogation-beyond-12-hour-limit/)
- [Ill. House passes Resolution urging Amtrak to restore Galesburg crew base](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/ill-house-passes-resolution-urging-amtrak-to-restore-galesburg-crew-base/)
- [Revised RR police reform bill passes both houses of General Assembly](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/revised-rr-police-reform-bill-passes-both-houses-of-general-assembly/)
- [Chicago Federation of Labor offers scholarships to children of parents in affiliated Chicago-area locals—three UTU locals qualify](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-federation-of-labor-offers-scholarships-to-children-of-parents-in-affiliated-chicago-area-locals-three-utu-locals-qualify/)
- [Amtrak cites Illinois DOT for successful passenger-rail program](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-cites-illinois-dot-for-successful-passenger-rail-program/)
- [FRA catches Amtrak again, recommends fines for three more Hours of Service violations on California Zephyr route—Szabo urges crews to insist on clearer instructions from supervisors](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-catches-amtrak-again-recommends-fines-for-three-more-hours-of-service-violations-on-california-zephyr-route-szabo-urges-crews-to-insist-on-clearer-instructions-from-supervisors/)
- [Amendments to Illinois RR Police Act become law—Rail Police powers now subject to independent oversight by Ill. State Police and Commerce Commission](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amendments-to-illinois-rr-police-act-become-law-rail-police-powers-now-subject-to-independent-oversight-by-ill-state-police-and-commerce-commission/)
- [FRA recommends fine against TRRA after supervisor caught performing covered service without disclosing Hours of Service](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-recommends-fine-against-trra-after-supervisor-caught-performing-covered-service-without-disclosing-hours-of-service/)
- [Neighboring states applaud as Governor signs Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Compact, setting stage for larger Chicago Hub network linking eight Heartland states](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/neighboring-states-applaud-as-governor-signs-midwest-interstate-passenger-rail-compact-setting-stage-for-larger-chicago-hub-network-linking-eight-heartland-states/)
- [U.S. District Court strikes down Illinois RR Employees Medical Treatment Act, but ruling has a "Silver Lining"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/u-s-district-court-strikes-down-illinois-rr-employees-medical-treatment-act-but-ruling-has-a-silver-lining/)
- [“We’re making a federal case out of it!” Szabo says as AFL-CIO asks congressional committee for national legislation to stop railroads from interfering with employee medical treatment; Illinois case cited before key congressmen](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/were-making-a-federal-case-out-of-it-szabo-says-as-afl-cio-asks-congressional-committee-for-national-legislation-to-stop-railroads-from-interfering-with-employee-medical-tr/)
- [Szabo named to governor’s new Climate Change panel, will advocate rail as “key tool in controlling greenhouse-gas emissions and reducing oil dependence”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-named-to-governors-new-climate-change-panel-will-advocate-rail-as-key-tool-in-controlling-greenhouse-gas-emissions-and-reducing-oil-dependence/)
- [State-supported Amtrak ridership continues to explode; Advocates call for infrastructure improvements to improve reliability](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-supported-amtrak-ridership-continues-to-explode-advocates-call-for-infrastructure-improvements-to-improve-reliability/)
- [FRA upholds UTU claim that Chicago Rail Link intimidated injured employee, cites carrier for violating federal law—Szabo says “The system works when you work it”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-upholds-utu-claim-that-chicago-rail-link-intimidated-injured-employee-cites-carrier-for-violating-federal-law-szabo-says-the-system-works-when-you-work-it/)
- [Mike Carrigan elected Illinois AFL-CIO president—Szabo calls him “a worthy and fitting successor” to retiring Margaret Blackshere](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/mike-carrigan-elected-illinois-afl-cio-president-szabo-calls-him-a-worthy-and-fitting-successor-to-retiring-margaret-blackshere/)
- [Amtrak releases Chicago-Rockford-Dubuque passenger-rail feasibility study – Illinois network could grow again](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-releases-chicago-rockford-dubuque-passenger-rail-feasibility-study-illinois-network-could-grow-again/)
- [Federal Judge rejects Norfolk Southern’s plea for summary judgment against Illinois Walkway Rule, says state has authority to issue regulations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/federal-judge-rejects-norfolk-southerns-plea-for-summary-judgment-against-illinois-walkway-rule-says-state-has-authority-to-issue-regulations/)
- [Slain son of Local 1290 President Jeffrey Fields to be memorialized with fund to aid foster children—Members can contribute to new foundation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/slain-son-of-local-1290-president-jeffrey-fields-to-be-memorialized-with-fund-to-aid-foster-children-members-can-contribute-to-new-foundation/)
- [Victory for UTU as Ill. Commerce Commission orders KCS to replace dilapidated E. St. Louis crew shelter](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/victory-for-utu-as-ill-commerce-commission-orders-kcs-to-replace-dilapidated-e-st-louis-crew-shelter/)
- [Federal Rail Safety Improvement Act would implement nationwide protection of the Illinois Rail Employees Medical Treatment Act](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/federal-rail-safety-improvement-act-would-implement-nationwide-protection-of-the-illinois-rail-employees-medical-treatment-act/)
- [Amtrak and IDOT agree: CN/IC route is best for new Chicago-Rockford-Dubuque Amtrak startup](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-and-idot-agree-cn-ic-route-is-best-for-new-chicago-rockford-dubuque-amtrak-startup/)
- [UTU and AFL-CIO deliver additional “whistleblower” protection for rail employees under new Ill. legislation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-and-afl-cio-deliver-additional-whistleblower-protection-for-rail-employees-under-new-ill-legislation/)
- [Following UTU complaint, FRA finds CN broke federal law in ordering drug test for conductor](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/following-utu-complaint-fra-finds-cn-broke-federal-law-in-ordering-drug-test-for-conductor/)
- [Ass’t. Legislative Director John Burner, “a tireless and unselfish servant,” to retire June 30; Bob Guy of Local #234 slated as successor](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/asst-legislative-director-john-burner-a-tireless-and-unselfish-servant-to-retire-june-30-bob-guy-of-local-234-slated-as-successor/)
- [FRA says UTU was right: RCO training, not “human factors” caused accident; CSX must upgrade RCO training program to eliminate “significant training deficiency”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-says-utu-was-right-rco-training-not-human-factors-caused-accident-csx-must-upgrade-rco-training-program-to-eliminate-significant-training-deficiency/)
- [FRA smacks NS with Hours of Service violation after conductor’s post-trip detention and interrogation; agency says limbo time becomes work time if employees are kept on property](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-smacks-ns-with-hours-of-service-violation-after-conductors-post-trip-detention-and-interrogation-agency-says-limbo-time-becomes-work-time-if-employees-are-kept-on-property/)
- [FRA cites Alton & Southern for employee intimidation, recommends fine after trainmaster tries to dissuade switchman from seeing physician](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-alton-southern-for-employee-intimidation-recommends-fine-after-trainmaster-tries-to-dissuade-switchman-from-seeing-physician/)
- [UTU wins four victories on improved crew shelters—CP Bensenville, CSX Barr, UP Dupo and KCS E. St. Louis](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-wins-four-victories-on-improved-crew-shelters-cp-bensenville-csx-barr-up-dupo-and-kcs-e-st-louis/)
- [Illinois State Rep. Nekritz testifies before U.S. Congress in support for Midwest passenger-train buildup, calls passenger rail “the only mode not supported in part by federal funding”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-state-rep-nekritz-testifies-before-u-s-congress-in-support-for-midwest-passenger-train-buildup-calls-passenger-rail-the-only-mode-not-supported-in-part-by-federal-funding/)
- [FRA to fine CN for bringing injured conductor back to yard and holding him over 12-hour limit for interrogation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-to-fine-cn-for-bringing-injured-conductor-back-to-yard-and-holding-him-over-12-hour-limit-for-interrogation/)
- [See one of rail labor’s most sacred shrines—and visit proud homeowners in their vintage town houses—at the Historic Pullman Annual House Tour Oct. 13 and 14](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/see-one-of-rail-labors-most-sacred-shrines-and-visit-proud-homeowners-in-their-vintage-town-houses-at-the-historic-pullman-annual-house-tour-oct-13-and-14/)
- [Governor’s climate-change panel adopts UTU’s call for more passenger trains as part of plan to reduce state’s greenhouse-gas emissions](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/governors-climate-change-panel-adopts-utus-call-for-more-passenger-trains-as-part-of-plan-to-reduce-states-greenhouse-gas-emissions/)
- [Illinois congressional delegation votes solidly for new federal rail-safety bill, including language used in Illinois Medical Treatment Act](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-congressional-delegation-votes-solidly-for-new-federal-rail-safety-bill-including-language-used-in-illinois-medical-treatment-act/)
- [UTU Alert: Catch up with latest FRA rules at FRA/UTU Training Workshop Nov. 8 in Chicago](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-alert-catch-up-with-latest-fra-rules-at-fra-utu-training-workshop-nov-8-in-chicago/)
- [Enjoy holiday cheer, classic urban town homes and a peek at U.S. rail-labor history at the annual Historic Pullman Candlelight House Walk](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/enjoy-holiday-cheer-classic-urban-town-homes-and-a-peek-at-u-s-rail-labor-history-at-the-annual-historic-pullman-candlelight-house-walk/)
- [State Transportation Plan review meetings scheduled for five cities Nov. 13-16. Here’s your chance to tell IDOT planners we need more rail](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-transportation-plan-review-meetings-scheduled-for-five-cities-nov-13-16-heres-your-chance-to-tell-idot-planners-we-need-more-rail/)
- [Durbin leads effort as Senate re-authorizes Amtrak for six years, creates federal/state grants that will help Illinois expand passenger-train network](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-leads-effort-as-senate-re-authorizes-amtrak-for-six-years-creates-federal-state-grants-that-will-help-illinois-expand-passenger-train-network/)
- [Former Macomb, Illinois, Mayor named to Amtrak board; Szabo calls him “a friend and experienced decision-maker who really understands passenger trains”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/former-macomb-illinois-mayor-named-to-amtrak-board-szabo-calls-him-a-friend-and-experienced-decision-maker-who-really-understands-passenger-trains/)
- [FRA cites CN for second Hours of Service violation in less than three months after carrier holds crew for post-accident interrogation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-cn-for-second-hours-of-service-violation-in-less-than-three-months-after-carrier-holds-crew-for-post-accident-interrogation/)
- [Chicago’s metro planning agency takes off gloves, lectures governor and legislative leaders for failing to deliver transit-funding agreement](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicagos-metro-planning-agency-takes-off-gloves-lectures-governor-and-legislative-leaders-for-failing-to-deliver-transit-funding-agreement/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT: Reach out to state reps and senators now and urge them to support long-term mass-transit funding and also intercity rail passenger-rail capital funding](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-reach-out-to-state-reps-and-senators-now-and-urge-them-to-support-long-term-mass-transit-funding-and-also-intercity-rail-passenger-rail-capital-funding/)
- [UTU and State of Illinois Win: Federal court rebuffs Norfolk Southern’s challenge to Illinois Safe Walkways Rule](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-and-state-of-illinois-win-federal-court-rebuffs-norfolk-southerns-challenge-to-illinois-safe-walkways-rule/)
- [FRA cites Iowa Interstate for allowing unqualified engineer to operate train on main line](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-iowa-interstate-for-allowing-unqualified-engineer-to-operate-train-on-main-line/)
- [“Battle of Virden” at last gets its monument—Downstate site of one of organized labor’s bloodiest victories credited for “Illinois being best organized labor state in America”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/battle-of-virden-at-last-gets-its-monument-downstate-site-of-one-of-organized-labors-bloodiest-victories-credited-for-illinois-being-best-organized-labor-st/)
- [New Senate bill introduced to add two more Chicago-St. Louis trains, add second frequencies to Quincy and Carbondale](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/new-senate-bill-introduced-to-add-two-more-chicago-st-louis-trains-add-second-frequencies-to-quincy-and-carbondale/)
- [Push for state passenger trains gains steam as all-out effort gathers 50 co-sponsors for bills to fund four more frequencies; your support now needed](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/push-for-state-passenger-trains-gains-steam-as-all-out-effort-gathers-50-co-sponsors-for-bills-to-fund-four-more-frequencies-your-support-now-needed/)
- [Illinois House votes unanimously to allow state to buy its own passenger equipment-could set stage for planned state rail buildup](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-house-votes-unanimously-to-allow-state-to-buy-its-own-passenger-equipment-could-set-stage-for-planned-state-rail-buildup/)
- [House Mass Transit Committee gets an earful about need for more passenger trains—and likes what it hears](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-mass-transit-committee-gets-an-earful-about-need-for-more-passenger-trains-and-likes-what-it-hears/)
- [Amendment to the Railroad Police Act clears Senate and moves to House—Measure mandates training and professional standards for railroad special agents and abuse protections for employees](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amendment-to-the-railroad-police-act-clears-senate-and-moves-to-house-measure-mandates-training-and-professional-standards-for-railroad-special-agents-and-abuse-protections-for-employees/)
- [Norfolk Southern files suit against Illinois Commerce Commission to overturn Walkway Regulation – UTU intervenes in Federal Court to protect standard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/norfolk-southern-files-suit-against-illinois-commerce-commission-to-overturn-walkway-regulation-utu-intervenes-in-federal-court-to-protect-standard/)
- [UTU Illinois Legislative Board endorses Blagojevich for governor, Mangieri for treasure—Primary Election slated for March 21 but busy members can vote early](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-illinois-legislative-board-endorses-blagojevich-for-governor-mangieri-for-treasure-primary-election-slated-for-march-21-but-busy-members-can-vote-early/)
- [Illinois House, Senate appropriators “look favorably” on budget boost for four more passenger-train](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-house-senate-appropriators-look-favorably-on-budget-boost-for-four-more-passenger-train/)
- [Amendments to Railroad Police Act pass House 108-0, moves to governor for signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amendments-to-railroad-police-act-pass-house-108-0-moves-to-governor-for-signature/)
- [UTU Illinois Legislative Board rejoins Illinois AFL-CIO—Szabo says, “It will make both of us stronger”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-illinois-legislative-board-rejoins-illinois-afl-cio-szabo-says-it-will-make-both-of-us-stronger/)
- [Amtrak CEO comes to Springfield, tells governor and legislature: “We’ll gear up to deliver four more frequencies in October”—Durbin, news media add to clamor for more trains](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-ceo-comes-to-springfield-tells-governor-and-legislature-well-gear-up-to-deliver-four-more-frequencies-in-october-durbin-news-media-add-to-clamor-for-more-t/)
- [State Senate passes bill allowing state to buy or lease passenger rolling stock--H.B. 5220 now goes to governor for signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-senate-passes-bill-allowing-state-to-buy-or-lease-passenger-rolling-stock-h-b-5220-now-goes-to-governor-for-signature/)
- [Illinois House approves budget for four more Amtrak frequencies—state could more than double its passenger-rail service at one stroke if Senate, governor follow up](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-house-approves-budget-for-four-more-amtrak-frequencies-state-could-more-than-double-its-passenger-rail-service-at-one-stroke-if-senate-governor-follow-up/)
- [Illinois Senate slaps rail industry for filing suit to overturn the Rail Employees Medical Treatment Act; passes unanimous resolution charging “breach of faith”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-senate-slaps-rail-industry-for-filing-suit-to-overturn-the-rail-employees-medical-treatment-act-passes-unanimous-resolution-charging-breach-of-faith/)
- [UTU a winner in Springfield as Illinois General Assembly adjourns – initiates big passenger-train build-up, professionalizes railroad police, and opposes industry’s attempt to derail Medical Treatment Act](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-a-winner-in-springfield-as-illinois-general-assembly-adjourns-initiates-big-passenger-train-build-up-professionalizes-railroad-police-and-opposes-industrys-attempt-to-derail-m/)
- [Durbin urges Amtrak to restore service to Rockford as city fathers clamor for passenger rail service—General Assembly’s decision to fund more Amtrak trains set’s off “me-too” epidemic](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-urges-amtrak-to-restore-service-to-rockford-as-city-fathers-clamor-for-passenger-rail-service-general-assemblys-decision-to-fund-more-amtrak-trains-sets-off-m/)
- [Membership Alert: Protect and enhance your Railroad Retirement disability benefits: Call your congressman and ask him to co-sponsor H.R. 5483](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-protect-and-enhance-your-railroad-retirement-disability-benefits-call-your-congressman-and-ask-him-to-co-sponsor-h-r-5483/)
- [Sen. Durbin, IDOT Secretary Martin attack Bush administration efforts to slash Amtrak budget, allege “drastic underfunding” could lead to route cuts in Illinois if Congress approves cuts](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sen-durbin-idot-secretary-martin-attack-bush-administration-efforts-to-slash-amtrak-budget-allege-drastic-underfunding-could-lead-to-route-cuts-in-illinois-if-congress-approves-cu/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich signs amendments to Railroad Police Act; RR special agents now must have same training as civil police, rail employees get additional protection](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-signs-amendments-to-railroad-police-act-rr-special-agents-now-must-have-same-training-as-civil-police-rail-employees-get-additional-protection/)
- [U.S. House restores Amtrak funding with strong support from Illinois delegation; Congresswoman Biggert is only Illinois ‘no' vote](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/u-s-house-restores-amtrak-funding-with-strong-support-from-illinois-delegation-congresswoman-biggert-is-only-illinois-no-vote/)
- [Durbin tells Rockford Amtrak advocates: “Let’s bring service to Northwestern Illinois”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-tells-rockford-amtrak-advocates-lets-bring-service-to-northwestern-illinois/)
- [Illinois Amtrak expansion to add 45 new jobs as Amtrak seeks engineers, conductors and mechanical trainees](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-amtrak-expansion-to-add-45-new-jobs-as-amtrak-seeks-engineers-conductors-and-mechanical-trainees/)
- [Membership Alert: Comply with ALL operating rules and regulations even if supervisor pressures you to expedite a move. FRA is holding employees “personally” liable](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-comply-with-all-operating-rules-and-regulations-even-if-supervisor-pressures-you-to-expedite-a-move-fra-is-holding-employees-personally-liable/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich champions new passenger service to Rockford, asks Amtrak to study possible routes](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-champions-new-passenger-service-to-rockford-asks-amtrak-to-study-possible-routes/)
- [Use your vote to protect your job, your benefits and your family: Organize Now!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/use-your-vote-to-protect-your-job-your-benefits-and-your-family-organize-now/)
- [Membership Alert: Time is running out, so register to vote NOW, before the Oct. 10 deadline!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-time-is-running-out-so-register-to-vote-now-before-the-oct-10-deadline/)
- [Illinois Legislative Board’s 2006 election endorsements are up—Register now and vote early for UTU-endorsed candidates!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-legislative-boards-2006-election-endorsements-are-up-register-now-and-vote-early-for-utu-endorsed-candidates/)
- [See one of rail labor’s most sacred shrines—and visit proud homeowners in their vintage town houses—at the Historic Pullman Annual House Tour this weekend Oct. 7 and 8](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/see-one-of-rail-labors-most-sacred-shrines-and-visit-proud-homeowners-in-their-vintage-town-houses-at-the-historic-pullman-annual-house-tour-this-weekend-oct-7-and-8/)
- [Szabo named VP of Illinois AFL-CIO, becomes first rail rep in 30 years to serve on state’s top labor council, says “Now we can fight our battles together.”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-named-vp-of-illinois-afl-cio-becomes-first-rail-rep-in-30-years-to-serve-on-states-top-labor-council-says-now-we-can-fight-our-battles-together/)
- ["Preview" of 4 new state-sponsored Amtrak trains to run Oct. 17, 18 and 19--greet the trains when they stop in your town](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/preview-of-4-new-state-sponsored-amtrak-trains-to-run-oct-17-18-and-19-greet-the-trains-when-they-stop-in-your-town/)
- [Membership Alert: Use Early Voting to cast your vote now. You don’t know where you’ll be on Election Day](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-use-early-voting-to-cast-your-vote-now-you-dont-know-where-youll-be-on-election-day/)
- [108 years later, Virden miners killed in 1898 lockout get their monument—“My great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather were there,” Szabo proudly proclaims at site of struggle that legitimized U.S. labor movement](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/108-years-later-virden-miners-killed-in-1898-lockout-get-their-monument-my-great-grandfather-and-great-great-grandfather-were-there-szabo-proudly-proclaims-at-site-of-strug/)
- [Railroad workers win big as Dem Senate victory elevates Durbin to Majority Whip—Chamber will be guided by Senate vet with Illinois rail-labor roots](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/railroad-workers-win-big-as-dem-senate-victory-elevates-durbin-to-majority-whip-chamber-will-be-guided-by-senate-vet-with-illinois-rail-labor-roots/)
- [Midwest Passenger Rail Compact passes Illinois House—Illinois on way to central role in winning federal funds for region-wide rail buildup](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/midwest-passenger-rail-compact-passes-illinois-house-illinois-on-way-to-central-role-in-winning-federal-funds-for-region-wide-rail-buildup/)
- [UTU-IL slate near-victorious as 90 per cent of union’s candidates win in 2006 election—Szabo sees stronger support for rail labor in new General Assembly](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-il-slate-near-victorious-as-90-per-cent-of-unions-candidates-win-in-2006-election-szabo-sees-stronger-support-for-rail-labor-in-new-general-assembly/)
- [State Senate approves Midwest Passenger Rail Compact—Szabo says Illinois will be “the keystone of the arch”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-senate-approves-midwest-passenger-rail-compact-szabo-says-illinois-will-be-the-keystone-of-the-arch/)
- [Ridership breakthrough! Chicago-St. Louis passenger traffic virtually doubles in first month after new trains added—Carbondale, Quincy corridors also see strong growth](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/ridership-breakthrough-chicago-st-louis-passenger-traffic-virtually-doubles-in-first-month-after-new-trains-added-carbondale-quincy-corridors-also-see-strong-growth/)
- [Commerce Commission judge proposes to fine Norfolk Southern $10,000, order immediate installation of temporary trailer, new permanent shelter by May 31 at 55th Street Yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/commerce-commission-judge-proposes-to-fine-norfolk-southern-10000-order-immediate-installation-of-temporary-trailer-new-permanent-shelter-by-may-31-at-55th-street-yard/)
- [Key state committee approves proposed walkway-safety rules; final adoption by Illinois Commerce Commission only a month away](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/key-state-committee-approves-proposed-walkway-safety-rules-final-adoption-by-illinois-commerce-commission-only-a-month-away/)
- [Special Committee on Chicago-area transit funding contracts with U of I transit experts—Szabo says UTU will watch closely to see that Metra workers are protected](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/special-committee-on-chicago-area-transit-funding-contracts-with-u-of-i-transit-experts-szabo-says-utu-will-watch-closely-to-see-that-metra-workers-are-protected/)
- [UTU finishes 2004 with solid growth in membership and UTUPAC contributions— “More are joining, more are giving and those who give are giving more,” Szabo says](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-finishes-2004-with-solid-growth-in-membership-and-utupac-contributions-more-are-joining-more-are-giving-and-those-who-give-are-giving-more-szabo-says/)
- [Durbin erupts in anger over Bush plan to end Amtrak funding as Speaker distances self from controversial proposal](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-erupts-in-anger-over-bush-plan-to-end-amtrak-funding-as-speaker-distances-self-from-controversial-proposal/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich writes Bush of “grave concerns” about Amtrak, says end of service would be “major blow” to Midwest families and would waste state’s investment in Chicago-St. Louis route](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-writes-bush-of-grave-concerns-about-amtrak-says-end-of-service-would-be-major-blow-to-midwest-families-and-would-waste-states-investment/)
- [New safe-walkway rules now in force in Illinois—local officers will be responsible for identifying violations, writing up “paper trail”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/new-safe-walkway-rules-now-in-force-in-illinois-local-officers-will-be-responsible-for-identifying-violations-writing-up-paper-trail/)
- [UTU opens “aggressive” 2005 legislative drive—Laws would prohibit carrier interference with employee medical treatment, mandate minimum insurance coverage for crew-vans, and halt state money for carriers out of compliance with ICC rules](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-opens-aggressive-2005-legislative-drive-laws-would-prohibit-carrier-interference-with-employee-medical-treatment-mandate-minimum-insurance-coverage-for-crew-vans-and-ha/)
- [UTU 2005 legislative drive advances as bill to insure crew-van passengers passes committee; upcoming bill to prohibit management interference with employee medical treatment is scheduled for committee vote; Szabo calls for membership action](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-2005-legislative-drive-advances-as-bill-to-insure-crew-van-passengers-passes-committee-upcoming-bill-to-prohibit-management-interference-with-employee-medical-treatment-is-scheduled-for-committee/)
- [House Transportation Committee approves bill prohibiting carriers from interfering with employees’ medical treatment--union calls for phone outreach as bill goes to floor for vote](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-transportation-committee-approves-bill-prohibiting-carriers-from-interfering-with-employees-medical-treatment-union-calls-for-phone-outreach-as-bill-goes-to-floor-for-vote/)
- [Crew-van insurance bill passes Illinois House 86-25, moves on to Senate](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/crew-van-insurance-bill-passes-illinois-house-86-25-moves-on-to-senate/)
- [Based on UTU complaint in Illinois, Norfolk Southern will put first-aid kits on all locos systemwide](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/based-on-utu-complaint-in-illinois-norfolk-southern-will-put-first-aid-kits-on-all-locos-systemwide/)
- [UTU and key legislators tweak language to make sure bill protecting RR employees’ medical treatment will pass House; Members urged to prepare for final push](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-and-key-legislators-tweak-language-to-make-sure-bill-protecting-rr-employees-medical-treatment-will-pass-house-members-urged-to-prepare-for-final-push/)
- [UTU members achieve closure as killer of Metra Electric conductor is sentenced to 42 years—“Justice Team” from Local 1290 had members at every court session right through conviction](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-members-achieve-closure-as-killer-of-metra-electric-conductor-is-sentenced-to-42-years-justice-team-from-local-1290-had-members-at-every-court-session-right-through-convi/)
- [UTU readies bill to stop railroads from interfering with employee medical treatment for vote on House floor—Szabo calls on members for “Final Push” of H.B 2449](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-readies-bill-to-stop-railroads-from-interfering-with-employee-medical-treatment-for-vote-on-house-floor-szabo-calls-on-members-for-final-push-of-h-b-2449/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT: “H.B. 2449 IS MAKING PROGRESS, NOW LET’S BUILD MOMENTUM! VOTE SET FOR EARLY NEXT WEEK”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-h-b-2449-is-making-progress-now-lets-build-momentum-vote-set-for-early-next-week/)
- [“You did it!” Szabo hails member activism as H.B. 2449 passes House after “chaotic” debate but warns “We will have to work harder to pass this bill in the Senate.”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/you-did-it-szabo-hails-member-activism-as-h-b-2449-passes-house-after-chaotic-debate-but-warns-we-will-have-to-work-harder-to-pass-this-bill-in-the-senat/)
- [Membership Alert: Contact your congressman now and urge support for H.R. 1630 and 1631-- full Amtrak funding and $73 billion for new and upgraded rail infrastructure!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-contact-your-congressman-now-and-urge-support-for-h-r-1630-and-1631-full-amtrak-funding-and-73-billion-for-new-and-upgraded-rail-infrastructure/)
- [H.B. 2449 moving forward in Illinois Senate; once again, outreach is needed](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/h-b-2449-moving-forward-in-illinois-senate-once-again-outreach-is-needed/)
- [Ill. Senate Transportation Committee approves UTU Legislation—H.B. 2449 and HB 2510 keep chugging along](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/ill-senate-transportation-committee-approves-utu-legislation-h-b-2449-and-hb-2510-keep-chugging-along/)
- [UTU Legislative agenda on track -- Crew-van insurance bill passes Senate 54-0; H.B. 2449 slated for vote by end of week](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-legislative-agenda-on-track-crew-van-insurance-bill-passes-senate-54-0-h-b-2449-slated-for-vote-by-end-of-week/)
- [Illinois House approves bill to create State Passenger Rail Fund with novel funding mechanism based on travel by state employees](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-house-approves-bill-to-create-state-passenger-rail-fund-with-novel-funding-mechanism-based-on-travel-by-state-employees/)
- [H.B. 2449, the Railroad Employees Medical Treatment Act passes Senate 59-0, goes back to House for final Concurrence](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/h-b-2449-the-railroad-employees-medical-treatment-act-passes-senate-59-0-goes-back-to-house-for-final-concurrence/)
- [Total victory achieved as Illinois House votes to concur with bill penalizing RR interference with injured workers’ medical treatment—Legislation heads to governor for signature](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/total-victory-achieved-as-illinois-house-votes-to-concur-with-bill-penalizing-rr-interference-with-injured-workers-medical-treatment-legislation-heads-to-governor-for-signature/)
- [Regional Planning Board formed to promote comprehensive land-use and transportation planning starting in 2006 – Szabo says it will grow railroad jobs](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/regional-planning-board-formed-to-promote-comprehensive-land-use-and-transportation-planning-starting-in-2006-szabo-says-it-will-grow-railroad-jobs/)
- [House Appropriations Committee approves “drop-dead Amtrak” budget—Szabo says $550-million appropriation would end all passenger rail service, pitch Amtrak into bankruptcy](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-appropriations-committee-approves-drop-dead-amtrak-budget-szabo-says-550-million-appropriation-would-end-all-passenger-rail-service-pitch-amtrak-into-bankruptcy/)
- [CHICAGO (July 5)—Passenger trains get boost from formation of Midwest Business Coalition for Passenger Rail](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-july-5-passenger-trains-get-boost-from-formation-of-midwest-business-coalition-for-passenger-rail/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich signs ‘Railroad Employees Medical Treatment Act’ into law—crew van insurance bill also signed](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-signs-railroad-employees-medical-treatment-act-into-law-crew-van-insurance-bill-also-signed/)
- [See one of rail labor’s most sacred shrines—and visit proud homeowners in their vintage town houses—at the Historic Pullman Annual House Tour Oct. 8 and 9](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/see-one-of-rail-labors-most-sacred-shrines-and-visit-proud-homeowners-in-their-vintage-town-houses-at-the-historic-pullman-annual-house-tour-oct-8-and-9/)
- [UTU action brings new NS 55th St. Crew Facility in Chicago; five other carriers plan upgrades/new construction statewide as enforcement continues](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-action-brings-new-ns-55th-st-crew-facility-in-chicago-five-other-carriers-plan-upgrades-new-construction-statewide-as-enforcement-continues/)
- [IDOT cites two contract crew-van operators after UTU members report reckless driving and non-compliant vehicles](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/idot-cites-two-contract-crew-van-operators-after-utu-members-report-reckless-driving-and-non-compliant-vehicles/)
- [Add some history to your holiday: Historic Pullman Candlelight House Walk set for Sat., Dec. 10, in “perfect town” that became cradle of American rail labor movement](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/add-some-history-to-your-holiday-historic-pullman-candlelight-house-walk-set-for-sat-dec-10-in-perfect-town-that-became-cradle-of-american-rail-labor-movement/)
- [Illinois AFL-CIO endorses state passenger-rail buildup—Unions will push for increased funding in 2006 budget](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-afl-cio-endorses-state-passenger-rail-buildup-unions-will-push-for-increased-funding-in-2006-budget/)
- [“I believe in the work they do:” A BNSF retiree tells why he became a Diamond-Plus Card donor to UTU-PAC](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/i-believe-in-the-work-they-do-a-bnsf-retiree-tells-why-he-became-a-diamond-plus-card-donor-to-utu-pac/)
- [Amtrak’s Chicago-Milwaukee “Hiawatha” trains break ridership records for 12th straight month](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtraks-chicago-milwaukee-hiawatha-trains-break-ridership-records-for-12th-straight-month/)
- [Norfolk Southern to be fined after FRA finds supervisor mishandled switchman’s injury](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/norfolk-southern-to-be-fined-after-fra-finds-supervisor-mishandled-switchmans-injury/)
- [Fight for walkway standards continues](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fight-for-walkway-standards-continues/)
- [Szabo meets with IDOT chiefs for briefing on CREATE and high-speed-rail programs](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-meets-with-idot-chiefs-for-briefing-on-create-and-high-speed-rail-programs/)
- [Commerce Commission staff recommends adoption of UTU’s proposed walkway-safety standards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/commerce-commission-staff-recommends-adoption-of-utus-proposed-walkway-safety-standards/)
- [Szabo addresses Midwest High Speed Rail Coalition – gives rail advocates his 10-point program for successful political action](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-addresses-midwest-high-speed-rail-coalition-gives-rail-advocates-his-10-point-program-for-successful-political-action/)
- [UTU files exception to ICC after NS switchman dies in Kankakee yard accident—Asks judge to reverse proposed order to deny walkway safety regulation, requests Commission to subpoena NS for confiscated evidence](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-files-exception-to-icc-after-ns-switchman-dies-in-kankakee-yard-accident-asks-judge-to-reverse-proposed-order-to-deny-walkway-safety-regulation-requests-commission-to-subpoena-ns-for-conf/)
- [House Transportation Chair introduces Bill to consolidate ICC and DOT rail programs-- would require DOT to adopt safe walkway regulations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-transportation-chair-introduces-bill-to-consolidate-icc-and-dot-rail-programs-would-require-dot-to-adopt-safe-walkway-regulations/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich asks legislators to support House Bill 4881, would consolidate Illinois Commerce Commission’s rail-safety programs into IDOT, establish safe-walkway standards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-asks-legislators-to-support-house-bill-4881-would-consolidate-illinois-commerce-commissions-rail-safety-programs-into-idot-establish-safe-walkway-standards/)
- [Szabo charges “Culture of Concealment” at NS as UTU Illinois Legislative Board fights carrier move to dismiss details of Kankakee death from ICC walkway-safety docket](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-charges-culture-of-concealment-at-ns-as-utu-illinois-legislative-board-fights-carrier-move-to-dismiss-details-of-kankakee-death-from-icc-walkway-safety-docket/)
- [Szabo, Burner re-elected by acclamation as IDOT Secretary Martin and CDOT Commissioner d’Escoto offer congratulations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-burner-re-elected-by-acclamation-as-idot-secretary-martin-and-cdot-commissioner-descoto-offer-congratulations/)
- [UTU bests Norfolk Southern as House Bill 4881 sails through Illinois House Transportation Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-bests-norfolk-southern-as-house-bill-4881-sails-through-illinois-house-transportation-committee/)
- [Illinois Commerce Commission orders Norfolk Southern to replace dilapidated Chicago crew building—Chairman says carrier “…is hereby required to proceed immediately with the work.”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-commerce-commission-orders-norfolk-southern-to-replace-dilapidated-chicago-crew-building-chairman-says-carrier-is-hereby-required-to-proceed-immediately-with-the-wor/)
- [Midwest Amtrak ridership up by double digits as weary travelers forsake congested roads and airports—Durbin blasts administration’s meager Amtrak budget](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/midwest-amtrak-ridership-up-by-double-digits-as-weary-travelers-forsake-congested-roads-and-airports-durbin-blasts-administrations-meager-amtrak-budget/)
- [UTU files Formal Complaint after Illinois Commerce Commission finds nine violations of state regulations in Kansas City Southern Railroad’s East St. Louis crew facility – seeks new facility, daily fines](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-files-formal-complaint-after-illinois-commerce-commission-finds-nine-violations-of-state-regulations-in-kansas-city-southern-railroads-east-st-louis-crew-facility-seeks-new-fac/)
- [No first-aid kit on your loco? Tell your Local. Illinois Commerce Commission has warned all railroads to get into compliance with state law](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/no-first-aid-kit-on-your-loco-tell-your-local-illinois-commerce-commission-has-warned-all-railroads-to-get-into-compliance-with-state-law/)
- [Urgent Membership Alert! Call your Illinois State Rep. now and ask for passage of new Walkway Safety bill H.B. 5340](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/urgent-membership-alert-call-your-illinois-state-rep-now-and-ask-for-passage-of-new-walkway-safety-bill-h-b-5340/)
- [Walkway-safety bill passes Ill. House 117-0 as UTU’s Eddie Washington spearheads overnight resucitation—Members urged to reach out to senators next](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/walkway-safety-bill-passes-ill-house-117-0-as-utus-eddie-washington-spearheads-overnight-resucitation-members-urged-to-reach-out-to-senators-next/)
- [Walkway-safety bill passes Senate Transportation Committee 10-0 over Norfolk Southern opposition—“Our rank and file did the job,” Szabo says](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/walkway-safety-bill-passes-senate-transportation-committee-10-0-over-norfolk-southern-opposition-our-rank-and-file-did-the-job-szabo-says/)
- [UTU asks Gov. Blagojevich to reconsider proposed RR diesel-fuel tax—Szabo says levy will “result in job loss and stifle economic growth in Illinois,” asks members to contact Legislators](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-asks-gov-blagojevich-to-reconsider-proposed-rr-diesel-fuel-tax-szabo-says-levy-will-result-in-job-loss-and-stifle-economic-growth-in-illinois-asks-members-to-contact-le/)
- [UTU urges more phone calls to keep walkway-safety bill moving through Senate](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-urges-more-phone-calls-to-keep-walkway-safety-bill-moving-through-senate/)
- [Walkway Safety bill advances to Governor for signature after Senate passes 55-0; Szabo thanks members for keeping up the fight](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/walkway-safety-bill-advances-to-governor-for-signature-after-senate-passes-55-0-szabo-thanks-members-for-keeping-up-the-fight/)
- [CREATE program officially begins as IDOT awards first engineering contracts in massive project to grow rail, attract industry to Chicago](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/create-program-officially-begins-as-idot-awards-first-engineering-contracts-in-massive-project-to-grow-rail-attract-industry-to-chicago/)
- [UTU Illinois prevails as Iowa Interstate complies with state law, supplies fresh drinking water on locomotives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-illinois-prevails-as-iowa-interstate-complies-with-state-law-supplies-fresh-drinking-water-on-locomotives/)
- [UTU joins rail advocates in Springfield to brief key legislators on expansion of state-sponsored Amtrak service](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-joins-rail-advocates-in-springfield-to-brief-key-legislators-on-expansion-of-state-sponsored-amtrak-service/)
- [Ridership continues to rise on Amtrak’s Michigan and Illinois trains—Szabo says consumer demand justifies route and frequency expansion](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/ridership-continues-to-rise-on-amtraks-michigan-and-illinois-trains-szabo-says-consumer-demand-justifies-route-and-frequency-expansion/)
- [Szabo elected Secretary/Treasurer of Historic Pullman Foundation -- will work to promote “model town’s” role in labor history, vision of Debs](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-elected-secretary-treasurer-of-historic-pullman-foundation-will-work-to-promote-model-towns-role-in-labor-history-vision-of-debs/)
- [PARALYZED RAILROADER’S FAMILY NEEDS YOUR HELP—GARY PIERCE BENEFIT SUNDAY, JULY 18, IN RIVERDALE](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/paralyzed-railroaders-family-needs-your-help-gary-pierce-benefit-sunday-july-18-in-riverdale/)
- [FRA cites NS for Hours of Service violation after UTU members at Kankakee blow whistle on dogcatch failure—Carrier to be fined](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-ns-for-hours-of-service-violation-after-utu-members-at-kankakee-blow-whistle-on-dogcatch-failure-carrier-to-be-fined/)
- [Amtrak designates Chicago-St. Louis and Chicago-Milwaukee-Madison “Tier I” corridors for early development under new Five Year Plan—Seeks federal/state 80/20 matching program to fund rail infrastructure like highways and airports](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-designates-chicago-st-louis-and-chicago-milwaukee-madison-tier-i-corridors-for-early-development-under-new-five-year-plan-seeks-federal-state-80-20-matching-program-t/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich signs walkway-safety bill into law—Commerce Commission to adopt enforceable standards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-signs-walkway-safety-bill-into-law-commerce-commission-to-adopt-enforceable-standards/)
- [UTU achieves virtual clean sweep of legislative victories as Illinois General Assembly ends budget fight and adjourns longest session in history](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-achieves-virtual-clean-sweep-of-legislative-victories-as-illinois-general-assembly-ends-budget-fight-and-adjourns-longest-session-in-history/)
- [Commerce Commission Judge initiates Hearing at UTU’s request over non-compliant crew facility at KCS East St. Louis Yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/commerce-commission-judge-initiates-hearing-at-utus-request-over-non-compliant-crew-facility-at-kcs-east-st-louis-yard/)
- [BNSF to hold job fair Aug. 27-28 in Oak Brook—Carrier seeks applicants for all job categories; UP seeks conductors and switchmen via Web page](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bnsf-to-hold-job-fair-aug-27-28-in-oak-brook-carrier-seeks-applicants-for-all-job-categories-up-seeks-conductors-and-switchmen-via-web-page/)
- [Illinois Commerce Commission issues Emergency Rules for safe walkways in rail yards effective September 1; initiates process for Permanent Rules](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-commerce-commission-issues-emergency-rules-for-safe-walkways-in-rail-yards-effective-september-1-initiates-process-for-permanent-rules/)
- [CSX opens new track, high-speed turnouts to break Blue Island bottleneck after UTU assists with land swap between carrier and Cook County](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/csx-opens-new-track-high-speed-turnouts-to-break-blue-island-bottleneck-after-utu-assists-with-land-swap-between-carrier-and-cook-county/)
- [CP to construct new lunchroom and washroom building at Bensenville Yard, increase cleaning schedule—Szabo calls commitment “a good first step”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/cp-to-construct-new-lunchroom-and-washroom-building-at-bensenville-yard-increase-cleaning-schedule-szabo-calls-commitment-a-good-first-step/)
- [Bigger Metra, more rail jobs coming as feds release $14.2 million for tracks, stations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bigger-metra-more-rail-jobs-coming-as-feds-release-14-2-million-for-tracks-stations/)
- [Membership Alert: Be sure to vote Nov. 2—and be EXTRA sure to vote for UTU-endorsed candidates!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-be-sure-to-vote-nov-2-and-be-extra-sure-to-vote-for-utu-endorsed-candidates/)
- [UTU Illinois Legislative Board 2004 Endorsements](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-illinois-legislative-board-2004-endorsements/)
- [Passenger-train support doubles as more than 230 city officials tell governor: “We want more trains.”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/passenger-train-support-doubles-as-more-than-230-city-officials-tell-governor-we-want-more-trains/)
- [UTU-IL endorsed candidates triumph on Election Day as 94 per cent of union’s slate is elected](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-il-endorsed-candidates-triumph-on-election-day-as-94-per-cent-of-unions-slate-is-elected/)
- [Durbin to be elevated to second-most powerful leadership post for Senate Democrats](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-to-be-elevated-to-second-most-powerful-leadership-post-for-senate-democrats/)
- [UTU meets with state Budget Director, appears at press conference asking Governor for additional passenger trains to St. Louis](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-meets-with-state-budget-director-appears-at-press-conference-asking-governor-for-additional-passenger-trains-to-st-louis/)
- [Special Illinois House panel convenes to study RTA funding formula—UTU will watchdog deliberations to protect Metra employees interest](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/special-illinois-house-panel-convenes-to-study-rta-funding-formula-utu-will-watchdog-deliberations-to-protect-metra-employees-interest/)
- [Visit the birthplace of rail labor at the annual Historic Pullman Candlelight House Walk Saturday Dec. 11](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/visit-the-birthplace-of-rail-labor-at-the-annual-historic-pullman-candlelight-house-walk-saturday-dec-11/)
- [UTU petitions Illinois Commerce Commission to order new shelter built for West End crews at CP’s Bensenville Yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-petitions-illinois-commerce-commission-to-order-new-shelter-built-for-west-end-crews-at-cps-bensenville-yard/)
- [UTU files closing arguments in Formal Complaint against KCS E. St. Louis locker room, asks substantial fines for continuing non-compliance and construction of new facility](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-files-closing-arguments-in-formal-complaint-against-kcs-e-st-louis-locker-room-asks-substantial-fines-for-continuing-non-compliance-and-construction-of-new-facility/)
- [Caught again! UTU Illinois complaint bring dual FRA citations against BNSF for interfering with employee's medical treatment](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/caught-again-utu-illinois-complaint-bring-dual-fra-citations-against-bnsf-for-interfering-with-employees-medical-treatment/)
- [Membership Alert!!! Call Sen. Peter Fitzgerald and request full funding for Amtrak, no directed service!!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-call-sen-peter-fitzgerald-and-request-full-funding-for-amtrak-no-directed-service/)
- [FRA CITES CARRIER AFTER ALERT UTU MEMBER SPOTS BAD-ORDER CARS MOVING IN MAIN-LINE SERVICE WITHOUT NOTICE TO CREWS](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-carrier-after-alert-utu-member-spots-bad-order-cars-moving-in-main-line-service-without-notice-to-crews/)
- [Durbin Saves Amtrak Budget in Senate; Fight Now Moves on to House](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-saves-amtrak-budget-in-senate-fight-now-moves-on-to-house/)
- [Bush Tax Policy Favors Walton Family, Heirs to a Fortune Built on Sweatshop Toys](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bush-tax-policy-favors-walton-family-heirs-to-a-fortune-built-on-sweatshop-toys/)
- [Membership Alert: Call Speaker Hastert and ask for full funding for Amtrak--$1.2 billion!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-call-speaker-hastert-and-ask-for-full-funding-for-amtrak-1-2-billion/)
- [Membership Alert! Call Sen. Fitzgerald now and ask him to sign Sen. Hutchinson's appeal for full Amtrak funding!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-call-sen-fitzgerald-now-and-ask-him-to-sign-sen-hutchinsons-appeal-for-full-amtrak-funding/)
- [Crew-van safety bill loophole is closing as House Transportation Committee votes to widen enforcement to include out-of-state vehicles](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/crew-van-safety-bill-loophole-is-closing-as-house-transportation-committee-votes-to-widen-enforcement-to-include-out-of-state-vehicles/)
- [Sen. Fitzgerald responds to UTU request for Amtrak funding support, asks Senate colleagues to back $1.2 billion](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sen-fitzgerald-responds-to-utu-request-for-amtrak-funding-support-asks-senate-colleagues-to-back-1-2-billion/)
- [Rep. Lipinski named top Democrat on key house transportation panel](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/rep-lipinski-named-top-democrat-on-key-house-transportation-panel/)
- [UTU complaints and followups win locker-room upgrades at TP&W and CSX; Union may file Formal Complaint to force IAIS and NS to remedy unsanitary conditions](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-complaints-and-followups-win-locker-room-upgrades-at-tp-union-may-file-formal-complaint-to-force-iais-and-ns-to-remedy-unsanitary-conditions/)
- [Sen. Fitzgerald’s letter hands Amtrak strong endorsement, joins with Sen. Durbin in call for full funding in FY 2002](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sen-fitzgeralds-letter-hands-amtrak-strong-endorsement-joins-with-sen-durbin-in-call-for-full-funding-in-fy-2002/)
- [Bill to regulate out-of-state crew vans passes House 106-0. Bill moves on to Senate](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bill-to-regulate-out-of-state-crew-vans-passes-house-106-0-bill-moves-on-to-senate/)
- [UTU petitions Illinois Commerce Commission for regulation to ensure safe employee walkways on rail property](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-petitions-illinois-commerce-commission-for-regulation-to-ensure-safe-employee-walkways-on-rail-property/)
- [UTU hosts "meet-and-greet" for state Senate Transportation Committee chairman](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-hosts-meet-and-greet-for-state-senate-transportation-committee-chairman/)
- [After battle, measure to preserve state’s rail-safety inspection program approved in State Senate Revenue Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/after-battle-measure-to-preserve-states-rail-safety-inspection-program-approved-in-state-senate-revenue-committee/)
- [FRA's Rail Safety Advisory Committee reviews Positive Train Control projects--Review includes BNSF's Quantum Train Sentinel](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fras-rail-safety-advisory-committee-reviews-positive-train-control-projects-review-includes-bnsfs-quantum-train-sentinel/)
- [UTU initiates legal proceeding against Iowa Interstate--Union seeks carrier compliance with laws regarding drinking water on locos, locker room at Rock Island](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-initiates-legal-proceeding-against-iowa-interstate-union-seeks-carrier-compliance-with-laws-regarding-drinking-water-on-locos-locker-room-at-rock-island/)
- [Rail safety inspection bill passes State Senate 58-0, moves on to House](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/rail-safety-inspection-bill-passes-state-senate-58-0-moves-on-to-house/)
- [Commerce Commission initiates rulemaking process on UTU's Petition for walkway standards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/commerce-commission-initiates-rulemaking-process-on-utus-petition-for-walkway-standards/)
- [Szabo calls Chicago region’s transportation system “unbalanced,” tells mayors publicly funded rail infrastructure improvements are best way to unplug congested highways](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-calls-chicago-regions-transportation-system-unbalanced-tells-mayors-publicly-funded-rail-infrastructure-improvements-are-best-way-to-unplug-congested-highways/)
- [Resolution to adopt American Passenger Rail Agreement introduced in Illinois House--UTU helped draft language, now pushes for adoption](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/resolution-to-adopt-american-passenger-rail-agreement-introduced-in-illinois-house-utu-helped-draft-language-now-pushes-for-adoption/)
- [State Senate passes Joint Resolution urging Congress to build passenger rail system, keep Amtrak funded](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-senate-passes-joint-resolution-urging-congress-to-build-passenger-rail-system-keep-amtrak-funded/)
- [Durbin accuses Bush administration of "playing chicken with Amtrak," urges Sec. Mineta not to mimic "failed" British privatization model](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-accuses-bush-administration-of-playing-chicken-with-amtrak-urges-sec-mineta-not-to-mimic-failed-british-privatization-model/)
- [Crew-van safety loophole closed as Senate passes House Bill 313; governor's signature awaited](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/crew-van-safety-loophole-closed-as-senate-passes-house-bill-313-governors-signature-awaited/)
- [House passes compromise bill to continue state rail safety program](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-passes-compromise-bill-to-continue-state-rail-safety-program/)
- [UTU joins Illinois high-speed-rail advocates to tell state's congressmen and senators: "Let's use federal matching funds to showcase high-speed rail between Chicago and St. Louis now!"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-joins-illinois-high-speed-rail-advocates-to-tell-states-congressmen-and-senators-lets-use-federal-matching-funds-to-showcase-high-speed-rail-between-chicago-and-st-louis-now/)
- [Membership Alert: Ask your congressman to “sign the Quinn letter” in support of Amtrak CEO’s $1.8-billion Amtrak budget request](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-ask-your-congressman-to-sign-the-quinn-letter-in-support-of-amtrak-ceos-1-8-billion-amtrak-budget-request/)
- [Illinois FIRST a success! State fund push passenger-rail projects forward toward 2005 service buildup](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-first-a-success-state-fund-push-passenger-rail-projects-forward-toward-2005-service-buildup/)
- [UTU takes action against Norfolk Southern after railroad fails to repair leaking, unsanitary crew locker room at Chicago yard](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-takes-action-against-norfolk-southern-after-railroad-fails-to-repair-leaking-unsanitary-crew-locker-room-at-chicago-yard/)
- [UTU alleges "culture of harassment and concealment" as FRA catches Indiana Harbor Belt in multiple coverups of employee injuries](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-alleges-culture-of-harassment-and-concealment-as-fra-catches-indiana-harbor-belt-in-multiple-coverups-of-employee-injuries/)
- [Commerce Commission schedules Aug. 20 hearing on UTU charges of inadequate conditions at NS Chicago locker room--Carrier could fined, ordered to rehab building](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/commerce-commission-schedules-aug-20-hearing-on-utu-charges-of-inadequate-conditions-at-ns-chicago-locker-room-carrier-could-fined-ordered-to-rehab-building/)
- [Illinois Commerce Commission administrative-law judge sets July 17 deadline for UTU petition on walkway-safety standards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-commerce-commission-administrative-law-judge-sets-july-17-deadline-for-utu-petition-on-walkway-safety-standards/)
- [UP, BNSF, CSX approve UTU walkway-safety proposal, but NS and CN will mount legal challenge--"We look forward to our day in court," Szabo says](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/up-bnsf-csx-approve-utu-walkway-safety-proposal-but-ns-and-cn-will-mount-legal-challenge-we-look-forward-to-our-day-in-court-szabo-says/)
- [Illinois Legislative Board creates member "Rapid Response System" to alert UTU members and reach out to public officials--REgister your ZIP code and e-mail address now and give legislators "a piece of your mind"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-legislative-board-creates-member-rapid-response-system-to-alert-utu-members-and-reach-out-to-public-officials-register-your-zip-code-and-e-mail-address-now-and-give-legislators-a-piece/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich goes "extra mile" to make sure out-of-state crew vans will be subject to safety regulation--Additional language to be inserted in Contract Carrier Act to re-assure feds](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-goes-extra-mile-to-make-sure-out-of-state-crew-vans-will-be-subject-to-safety-regulation-additional-language-to-be-inserted-in-contract-carrier-act-to-re-assure-feds/)
- [Gov. Blagojevich signs law protecting whistleblower employees—“could have significant benefits for railroad workers,” Szabo says](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-blagojevich-signs-law-protecting-whistleblower-employees-could-have-significant-benefits-for-railroad-workers-szabo-says/)
- [UTU wins "Round One" as Commerce Commission judge rejects Norfolk Southern bid to dismiss complaint on dilapidated crew building--judge sets Oct. 1 for new hearing](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-wins-round-one-as-commerce-commission-judge-rejects-norfolk-southern-bid-to-dismiss-complaint-on-dilapidated-crew-building-judge-sets-oct-1-for-new-hearing/)
- [UTU members win as Commerce Commission judge orders Iowa Interstate to comply with law; Judge Tate tells carrier to fix up Rock Island crew base, put drinking water on locomotives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-members-win-as-commerce-commission-judge-orders-iowa-interstate-to-comply-with-law-judge-tate-tells-carrier-to-fix-up-rock-island-crew-base-put-drinking-water-on-locomotives/)
- [Szabo calls rail “the forgotten mode,” tells Governor’s Economic Summit to invest in rail infrastructure for faster growth of Illinois economy](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-calls-rail-the-forgotten-mode-tells-governors-economic-summit-to-invest-in-rail-infrastructure-for-faster-growth-of-illinois-economy/)
- [Municipal Officials ask Gov. Blagojevich for statewide passenger-rail buildup—119 elected officials sign letter of support as Illinois Municipal League meets in Chicago](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/municipal-officials-ask-gov-blagojevich-for-statewide-passenger-rail-buildup-119-elected-officials-sign-letter-of-support-as-illinois-municipal-league-meets-in-chicago/)
- [Durbin and Fitzgerald ask Senate to recognize RR Hall of Fame in Galesburg](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-and-fitzgerald-ask-senate-to-recognize-rr-hall-of-fame-in-galesburg/)
- [Norfolk Southern crew building must be fixed or replaced, UTU leaders tell Commerce Commission judge](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/norfolk-southern-crew-building-must-be-fixed-or-replaced-utu-leaders-tell-commerce-commission-judge/)
- [Update: Administrative Law Judge holds hearing on UTU’s petition for walkway standards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/update-administrative-law-judge-holds-hearing-on-utus-petition-for-walkway-standards/)
- [House unanimously passes governor's revision of law regulating out-of-state crew vans--Senate expected to follow up shortly](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/house-unanimously-passes-governors-revision-of-law-regulating-out-of-state-crew-vans-senate-expected-to-follow-up-shortly/)
- [Speaker Madigan introduces resolution favoring full FY 2004 Amtrak budget plus federal funds for passenger-rail infrastructure buildup](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/speaker-madigan-introduces-resolution-favoring-full-fy-2004-amtrak-budget-plus-federal-funds-for-passenger-rail-infrastructure-buildup/)
- [Sen. Durbin works late into night to assure adequate Amtrak funding--FY 2004 budget will keep all trains running, catch up with some deferred maintenance, but leave much essential track work unfunded](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sen-durbin-works-late-into-night-to-assure-adequate-amtrak-funding-fy-2004-budget-will-keep-all-trains-running-catch-up-with-some-deferred-maintenance-but-leave-much-essential-track-work-unfunded/)
- [FRA finds UP violated Hours of Service Law, will fine carrier for keeping crew at Proviso during accident investigation while recording them as “off duty”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-finds-up-violated-hours-of-service-law-will-fine-carrier-for-keeping-crew-at-proviso-during-accident-investigation-while-recording-them-as-off-duty/)
- [Senate unanimously affirms Governor’s amendatory veto language for crew-van safety law—out-of-state vans to be subject to Illinois safety inspection](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/senate-unanimously-affirms-governors-amendatory-veto-language-for-crew-van-safety-law-out-of-state-vans-to-be-subject-to-illinois-safety-inspection/)
- [Update: Commerce Commission affirms judge’s Proposed Order-- Iowa Interstate must fix Rock Island crew facilities, provide drinking water on locomotives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/update-commerce-commission-affirms-judges-proposed-order-iowa-interstate-must-fix-rock-island-crew-facilities-provide-drinking-water-on-locomotives/)
- [Decatur Trades & Labor Assembly to honor UTU’s Lloyd Holman for union and civic work](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/decatur-trades-labor-assembly-to-honor-utus-lloyd-holman-for-union-and-civic-work/)
- [Bogus patriotism or the real thing? Wal-Mart vs. Sears](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bogus-patriotism-or-the-real-thing-wal-mart-vs-sears/)
- [UTU members in Illinois provide vital data for nationwide survey showing passenger rudeness a growing problem in travel industry](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-members-in-illinois-provide-vital-data-for-nationwide-survey-showing-passenger-rudeness-a-growing-problem-in-travel-industry/)
- [Chicago rail improvements will attract industry, grow jobs, study shows](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-rail-improvements-will-attract-industry-grow-jobs-study-shows/)
- [Szabo joins Blagojevich Transition team as co-chairman of Freight Rail Sub-committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-joins-blagojevich-transition-team-as-co-chairman-of-freight-rail-sub-committee/)
- [State cites crew-van operator for safety violation after UTU complaint–Szabo says “system works if you work it.”](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-cites-crew-van-operator-for-safety-violation-after-utu-complaint-szabo-says-system-works-if-you-work-it/)
- [UTU asks state to establish safety standards for employee walkways in rail yards](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-asks-state-to-establish-safety-standards-for-employee-walkways-in-rail-yards/)
- [Stationary-whistle pilot project in Mundelein called successful in reducing noise,but it's no panacea against drivers who ignore crossing signals](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/stationary-whistle-pilot-project-in-mundelein-called-successful-in-reducing-noisebut-its-no-panacea-against-drivers-who-ignore-crossing-signals/)
- [Passenger-rail advocates agree: U.S. need federally funded rail buildout, interconnected national system and full funding for Amtrak](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/passenger-rail-advocates-agree-u-s-need-federally-funded-rail-buildout-interconnected-national-system-and-full-funding-for-amtrak/)
- [Norfolk Southern employee breath analysis found out of compliance following UTU complaint to FRA--Carrier will be cited for lapse](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/norfolk-southern-employee-breath-analysis-found-out-of-compliance-following-utu-complaint-to-fra-carrier-will-be-cited-for-lapse/)
- [Who won the election? Our union; nearly 90 per cent of candidates endorsed by Illinois UTU got elected Nov. 5](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/who-won-the-election-our-union-nearly-90-per-cent-of-candidates-endorsed-by-illinois-utu-got-elected-nov-5/)
- [UTU member Eddie Washington wins race for state representative--will represent new district in Waukegan-North Chicago](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-member-eddie-washington-wins-race-for-state-representative-will-represent-new-district-in-waukegan-north-chicago/)
- [Working on Election Day? Vote absentee now--it's easy!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/working-on-election-day-vote-absentee-now-its-easy/)
- [BNSF opens huge new intermodal yard in prairie business park southwest of Joliet--Train operations, jobs expected to grow](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bnsf-opens-huge-new-intermodal-yard-in-prairie-business-park-southwest-of-joliet-train-operations-jobs-expected-to-grow/)
- [UTU names Szabo to FRA rulemaking team](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-names-szabo-to-fra-rulemaking-team/)
- [Watch for the new special limited-edition Illinois TPEL pins--they identify UTU's "Illinois Leaders of Distinction"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/watch-for-the-new-special-limited-edition-illinois-tpel-pins-they-identify-utus-illinois-leaders-of-distinction/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT!!! U.S. HOUSE PLANNING AMTRAK CUTS. REACH OUT NOW TO REPS. LAHOOD AND JACKSON TO SAVE TRAINS AND JOBS!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-u-s-house-planning-amtrak-cuts-reach-out-now-to-reps-lahood-and-jackson-to-save-trains-and-jobs/)
- [UTU endorses its candidates for 2002 state and federal elections--Durbin, Blagojevich and Madigan head list](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-endorses-its-candidates-for-2002-state-and-federal-elections-durbin-blagojevich-and-madigan-head-list/)
- [Turned down for treatment by your health plan? Don't panic. Here's how you can appeal and get results 95 per cent of the time!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/turned-down-for-treatment-by-your-health-plan-dont-panic-heres-how-you-can-appeal-and-get-results-95-per-cent-of-the-time/)
- [Chicago business newspaper hails Cong. Lipinski's plan to end city's "freight-rail bottlenecks," endorses new rail trust fund using RR diesel-fuel tax](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-business-newspaper-hails-cong-lipinskis-plan-to-end-citys-freight-rail-bottlenecks-endorses-new-rail-trust-fund-using-rr-diesel-fuel-tax/)
- [Judge lifts temporary restraining order, reinstates Illinois Commerce Commission citation against Norfolk Southern on fatal grade-crossing accident](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/judge-lifts-temporary-restraining-order-reinstates-illinois-commerce-commission-citation-against-norfolk-southern-on-fatal-grade-crossing-accident/)
- [Norfolk Southern wins temporary restraining order against Illinois Commerce Commission citation on grade crossing that killed five](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/norfolk-southern-wins-temporary-restraining-order-against-illinois-commerce-commission-citation-on-grade-crossing-that-killed-five/)
- [The British are coming! The British are coming!--to meet with the UTU and check out Metra's Labor-Management Program](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/the-british-are-coming-the-british-are-coming-to-meet-with-the-utu-and-check-out-metras-labor-management-program/)
- [UTU member Eddie Washington runs for Illinois House in new district covering Waukegan-North Chicago--could be first rail worker to serve in General Assembly in decades](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-member-eddie-washington-runs-for-illinois-house-in-new-district-covering-waukegan-north-chicago-could-be-first-rail-worker-to-serve-in-general-assembly-in-decades/)
- ["It's great to be with real railroad workers," says. Sen. Dick Durbin after UTU family reception in Washington](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/its-great-to-be-with-real-railroad-workers-says-sen-dick-durbin-after-utu-family-reception-in-washington/)
- [Out-of-state van owners agree to inspect vehicles--Illinois Legislative Board asks members to monitor compliance](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/out-of-state-van-owners-agree-to-inspect-vehicles-illinois-legislative-board-asks-members-to-monitor-compliance/)
- [UTU Illinois Legislative Board scores again as FRA cites another carrier for employee intimidation--Accurate case writeup brings prompt federal response to CN/IC employee-injury incident at Cairo](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-illinois-legislative-board-scores-again-as-fra-cites-another-carrier-for-employee-intimidation-accurate-case-writeup-brings-prompt-federal-response-to-cn-ic-employee-injury-incident-at-cairo/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT: ASK SENATORS DURBIN AND FITZGERALD TO MOVE SEN. HOLLINGS'S AMTRAK FUNDING BILL!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-ask-senators-durbin-and-fitzgerald-to-move-sen-hollingss-amtrak-funding-bill/)
- [REACHING OUT TO SEN. FITZGERALD JUST GOT EASIER! TOWN MEETING TONIGHT IN SPRINGFIELD AT 6 P.M., PLUS SENATE RECESS LEAVES MORE TIME FOR PHONE CALLS](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/reaching-out-to-sen-fitzgerald-just-got-easier-town-meeting-tonight-in-springfield-at-6-p-m-plus-senate-recess-leaves-more-time-for-phone-calls/)
- [URGENT MEMBER OUTREACH ALERT! ASK SEN. FITZGERALD TO CO-SPONSOR S. 1991!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/urgent-member-outreach-alert-ask-sen-fitzgerald-to-co-sponsor-s-1991/)
- [Chicago business and union leaders rally to help Amtrak secure funding](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/chicago-business-and-union-leaders-rally-to-help-amtrak-secure-funding/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT: CALL SPEAKER HASTERT AND DEMAND AMTRAK FUNDING NOW! NEW CEO SAYS SHUTDOWN DUE IN JULY IF FUNDS NOT REPLENISHED.](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-call-speaker-hastert-and-demand-amtrak-funding-now-new-ceo-says-shutdown-due-in-july-if-funds-not-replenished/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT! CONTACT HOUSE SPEAKER HASTERT NOW AND ASK FOR IMMEDIATE AMTRAK FUNDING!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-contact-house-speaker-hastert-now-and-ask-for-immediate-amtrak-funding/)
- [Called to work on track where you're not qualified? Take the assignment but tell the union--and write it all down](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/called-to-work-on-track-where-youre-not-qualified-take-the-assignment-but-tell-the-union-and-write-it-all-down/)
- [FRA cites IHB and BRC for inury reporting/intimidation violations](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/fra-cites-ihb-and-brc-for-inury-reporting-intimidation-violations/)
- [Illinois Senate passes pro-passenger rail resolution](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-senate-passes-pro-passenger-rail-resolution/)
- [Train accidents rise as NTSB renews call for adequate rest](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/train-accidents-rise-as-ntsb-renews-call-for-adequate-rest/)
- [Sleep, fatigue and transportation safety: Northwestern University conference to air the issues June 25-26](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/sleep-fatigue-and-transportation-safety-northwestern-university-conference-to-air-the-issues-june-25-26/)
- [UTU joins Midwest campaign to get permanent federal funding for modern passenger-rail system](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-joins-midwest-campaign-to-get-permanent-federal-funding-for-modern-passenger-rail-system/)
- [IDOT to begin surprise inspections of crew vans--UTU complaint forms credited with alerting state agency](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/idot-to-begin-surprise-inspections-of-crew-vans-utu-complaint-forms-credited-with-alerting-state-agency/)
- [Illinois House passes pro-passenger-rail resolution 113-1](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-house-passes-pro-passenger-rail-resolution-113-1/)
- [What happens to Railroad Retirement if Amtrak shuts down? Big trouble](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/what-happens-to-railroad-retirement-if-amtrak-shuts-down-big-trouble/)
- [Membership alert! New IDOT rules will help enforce crew-van safety; crew members urged to report all van violations to union promptly](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-new-idot-rules-will-help-enforce-crew-van-safety-crew-members-urged-to-report-all-van-violations-to-union-promptly/)
- [Red board! Illinois Legislative Board asks members to document signal malfunctions](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/red-board-illinois-legislative-board-asks-members-to-document-signal-malfunctions/)
- [Local 1433 Legislative rep Bruce Jankowski dead at 44--Heart attack fells "dedicated union activist"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/local-1433-legislative-rep-bruce-jankowski-dead-at-44-heart-attack-fells-dedicated-union-activist/)
- [Long-distance passenger trains endangered--High-speed-rail group urges letter-writing campaign to Congress](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/long-distance-passenger-trains-endangered-high-speed-rail-group-urges-letter-writing-campaign-to-congress/)
- [Illinois Legislative Board establishes "Leaders of Distinction" program to honor outstanding TPEL donors](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/illinois-legislative-board-establishes-leaders-of-distinction-program-to-honor-outstanding-tpel-donors/)
- [Durbin takes stand to save Amtrak trains and jobs--"Breaking up Amtrak is short-sighted, coherent, national system needed," he tells Senate hearing](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-takes-stand-to-save-amtrak-trains-and-jobs-breaking-up-amtrak-is-short-sighted-coherent-national-system-needed-he-tells-senate-hearing/)
- [UTU endorses Blagojevich, Madigan, Kelleher for top state primary races, Durbin for U.S. Senate--Labor voting records cited](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-endorses-blagojevich-madigan-kelleher-for-top-state-primary-races-durbin-for-u-s-senate-labor-voting-records-cited/)
- [Controversy erupts as Wal-Mart seeks $18-million public subsidy to open Chicago store](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/controversy-erupts-as-wal-mart-seeks-18-million-public-subsidy-to-open-chicago-store/)
- [March 19, 2002 Primary Endorsements](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/march-19-2002-primary-endorsements/)
- [State to begin regular program of inspecting railroad crew washrooms after UTU urges enforcement of 1913 sanitation law](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-to-begin-regular-program-of-inspecting-railroad-crew-washrooms-after-utu-urges-enforcement-of-1913-sanitation-law/)
- [State of Illinois adopts strategy for enforcing new crew-van safety law](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/state-of-illinois-adopts-strategy-for-enforcing-new-crew-van-safety-law/)
- [NTSB cites sleep-deprived trucker in fatal 1999 Amtrak grade-crossing collision at Bourbonnais; UTU Illinois Legislative Board calls for tighter focus on employee fatigue in all transportation modes](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/ntsb-cites-sleep-deprived-trucker-in-fatal-1999-amtrak-grade-crossing-collision-at-bourbonnais-utu-illinois-legislative-board-calls-for-tighter-focus-on-employee-fatigue-in-all-transportation-modes/)
- [Durbin requests Senate hearing on Amtrak funding package](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/durbin-requests-senate-hearing-on-amtrak-funding-package/)
- [A tangled web: How Enron enriched a U.S. senator and his wife--and how they used their power to help their corporate protector while he withheld support of Railroad Retirement reform](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/a-tangled-web-how-enron-enriched-a-u-s-senator-and-his-wife-and-how-they-used-their-power-to-help-their-corporate-protector-while-he-withheld-support-of-railroad-retirement-reform/)
- [Cong. Jack Quinn tells Chicago audience, "Let's start funding rail improvements now"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/cong-jack-quinn-tells-chicago-audience-lets-start-funding-rail-improvements-now/)
- ["Peeking at the Boss's Paycheck:" Poultry King John Tyson Screws up yet Collects $2.1-Billion "Blunder Bonus"](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/peeking-at-the-bosss-paycheck-poultry-king-john-tyson-screws-up-yet-collects-2-1-billion-blunder-bonus/)
- [MEMBERSHIP ALERT: STOP THE DISMEMBERMENT OF AMTRAK! CALL YOUR CONGRESSMAN NOW AND ASK FOR A"NO" VOTE ON H.R. 3591](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-alert-stop-the-dismemberment-of-amtrak-call-your-congressman-now-and-ask-for-ano-vote-on-h-r-3591/)
- [Bush's pro-big-business agenda switches into high gear as administration readies new corporate-welfare and anti-labor legislation](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/bushs-pro-big-business-agenda-switches-into-high-gear-as-administration-readies-new-corporate-welfare-and-anti-labor-legislation/)
- [Senate tally shows Durbin stood with rail unions 100% on RR Retirement vote, Fitzgerald--67%; Illinois Congressmen--100%](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/senate-tally-shows-durbin-stood-with-rail-unions-100-on-rr-retirement-vote-fitzgerald-67-illinois-congressmen-100/)
- [Metra Introduces GeoFocus Automated Train Announcement System](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/metra-introduces-geofocus-automated-train-announcement-system/)
- [President signs Railroad Retirement reform bill--UTU schedules informational meeting in Chicago Jan. 16](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/president-signs-railroad-retirement-reform-bill-utu-schedules-informational-meeting-in-chicago-jan-16/)
- [Railroad Retirement Reform Passes U.S. Senate 90-9 with Support From Durbin and Fitzgerald!!! "Phone Calls from Union Families Put us Over the Top," UTU Leaders Say](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/railroad-retirement-reform-passes-u-s-senate-90-9-with-support-from-durbin-and-fitzgerald-phone-calls-from-union-families-put-us-over-the-top-utu-leaders-say/)
- [Railroad Retirement reform bill moves on to White House--Only president's signature needed to make it law](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/railroad-retirement-reform-bill-moves-on-to-white-house-only-presidents-signature-needed-to-make-it-law/)
- [Freight-Train Congestion in Chicago: Can We Build Our Way Out of the Bottleneck?](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/freight-train-congestion-in-chicago-can-we-build-our-way-out-of-the-bottleneck/)
- [How Do We Stop the Amtrak Reform Council? Get Politically Prepared Now!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/how-do-we-stop-the-amtrak-reform-council-get-politically-prepared-now/)
- [Attention, President Bush: Be Like Ike--Get the Economy Going Again!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/attention-president-bush-be-like-ike-get-the-economy-going-again/)
- [Szabo, Rail Advocated Meet with Sen. Durbin On Amtrak Security and High-Speed Rail Funding](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/szabo-rail-advocated-meet-with-sen-durbin-on-amtrak-security-and-high-speed-rail-funding/)
- [Membership Outreach Alert: Call U.S. Senators Now and Ask Them to Get Railroad Retirement Reform Scheduled for Vote!](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/membership-outreach-alert-call-u-s-senators-now-and-ask-them-to-get-railroad-retirement-reform-scheduled-for-vote/)
- [Amtrak and Sen. Durbin Hear Deman for More Illinois Passenger Trains, Ask State's Mayors to Lobby Congress for Funding](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/amtrak-and-sen-durbin-hear-deman-for-more-illinois-passenger-trains-ask-states-mayors-to-lobby-congress-for-funding/)
- [Peeking at the Boss's Paycheck](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/peeking-at-the-bosss-paycheck/)
- [UTU Legnd Al Chesser to be Honored at Eugene Debs Banquet Nov. 3 - Boyd Asks Strong Memebership Turnout](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/utu-legnd-al-chesser-to-be-honored-at-eugene-debs-banquet-nov-3-boyd-asks-strong-memebership-turnout/)
- [Help Short Lines Fix Up Their Track so RR Business and Jobs Can Grow, Szabo Tells Congressional Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/help-short-lines-fix-up-their-track-so-rr-business-and-jobs-can-grow-szabo-tells-congressional-committee/)
- [Gov. Ryan Signs Crew-Van Safety Law! New Safety Measures Go Into Effect Immediately](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/gov-ryan-signs-crew-van-safety-law-new-safety-measures-go-into-effect-immediately/)

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Homepage](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/) - SMART-TD is the largest rail union in the nation. The Illinois Legislative Board is critical to ensuring the proper protections for the rail-hub of the nation.
- [Local Rankings](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-pac/local-rankings/) - View Local Political Action Committee Rankings for members of the local Illinois Smart Transportation Division.
- [Top Locals](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-pac/top-locals/) - These are the leaders for the highest total monthly contribution, highest average monthly contribution, greatest total increase and greatest average increase.
- [IL Legislative Board](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/il-legislative-board/) - SMART-TD was founded in 1969 to uphold fair wages, essential benefits and protection of the health, safety and quality of life of America's railroad employees.
- [Legislative Representatives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/il-legislative-board/legislative-representatives/) - View the members of the Illinois Local Representatives of the IL SMART Transportation Division.
- [Leaders of Distinction](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-pac/leaders-of-distinction/) - Leaders of Distinction is designed to recognize those members in Illinois Locals who are true leaders in the SMART-TD Political Action Committee.
- [Useful Links](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/useful-links/) - Find links for websites providing useful resources for Illinois Smart Transportation Division including federal and state agencies.
- [Executive Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/il-legislative-board/executive-committee/) - Meet the team of legislative board members that make up the Executive Committee for the Illinois SMART Transportation Division. Learn more.
- [Blocked Crossing Report](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/blocked-crossing-report/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/contact-us/) - SMART-TD Illinois is located at 126 N. Scott Street in Joliet, IL. Give us a call today at 312-236-5353 or email us for more information.
- [SMART-TD PAC](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-pac/) - Discover more about SMART-TD PAC including Emblems of Distinction, Leaders of Distinction, Local Rankings and Top Locals. Learn more.
- [SMART-TD PAC Emblems of Distinction](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/smart-td-pac/smart-td-pac-emblems-of-distinction/) - SMART-TD PAC Emblems of Distinction awards go to individuals who contribute to SMART-TD Political Action Committee.
- [Hot Topics Archives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hot-topics-archives/) - View the most recent hot topics and news from SMART-TD. Search our archives for past hot topics.
- [Hot Topics Archives](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/hot-topics-archives/) - View the most recent hot topics and news from SMART-TD. Search our archives for past hot topics.

## Board Members

- [Ryan Bushue](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/ryan-bushue/)
- [Tim Kilbride](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/tim-kilbride/)
- [Braxton Ochsenbein](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/braxton-ochsenbein/)
- [Lauvell Crawford](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/lauvell-crawford/)
- [Phil Wellenkamp](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/phil-wellenkamp/)
- [Chad Fisher](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/chad-fisher/)
- [Justin Woroszylo](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/justin-woroszylo/)
- [Robert Turner](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/robert-turner/)
- [Chad Meyers](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/chad-meyers/)
- [William Copeland](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/william-copeland/)
- [Anthony Steele](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/anthony-steele/)
- [Matthew Waksmundski](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/matthew-waksmundski/)
- [Joe Hajny](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/joe-hajny/)
- [Bob Blomgren](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/bob-blomgren/)
- [Kelly Fuery](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/kelly-fuery/)
- [Jeffery Votteler](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/jeffery-votteler/) - Meet Jeffery Votteler Executive Committee Local Number: 1597
- [Jarrod Hudson](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/jarrod-hudson/) - Meet Jarrod Hudson Executive Committee Local Number: 0453
- [Joseph Ciemny](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/joseph-ciemny/) - Meet Joseph Ciemny Executive Committee Local Number: 1534
- [Robert W. Guy](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/robert-w-guy/) - Meet Robert W. Guy
- [Doug Silkowski](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/doug-silkowski/) - Meet Doug Silkowski Legislative Representative Local Number: 0168
- [Cederick Fuller](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/cederick-fuller/) - Meet Cederick Fuller Legislative Representative Local Number: 0171
- [Jeremy Hodges](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/jeremy-hodges/) - Meet Jeremy Hodges Legislative Representative Local Number: 0195
- [Jeremy Strawser](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/jeremy-strawser/) - Meet Jeremy Strawser Legislative Representative Local Number: 0432
- [Jordan Boone](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/jordan-boone/) - Meet Jordan Boone Executive Committee Local Number: 0445
- [Josh Hendrickson](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/josh-hendrickson/) - Meet Josh Hendrickson Legislative Representative Local Number: 0528
- [Orlando Rojas](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/orlando-rojas/) - Meet Orlando Rojas Legislative Representative Local Number: 0653
- [Zachary Smith](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/zachary-smith/) - Meet Zachary Smith Legislative Representative Local Number: 0740
- [Tim Sloper](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/tim-sloper/) - Meet Tim Sloper Legislative Representative Local Number: 0768
- [Matthew Johnson](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/matthew-johnson/) - Meet Matthew Johnson Legislative Representative Local Number: 1003
- [Justin Hamilton](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/justin-hamilton/) - Meet Justin Hamilton Legislative Representative Local Number: 1299
- [Mark Pesek](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/mark-pesek/) - Meet Mark Pesek Legislative Representative Local Number: 1358
- [Eric Grim](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/eric-grim/) - Meet Eric Grim Legislative Representative Local Number: 1402
- [Jeremy Kennedy](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/jeremy-kennedy/) - Meet Jeremy Kennedy Legislative Representative Local Number: 1423
- [Erik Thames](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/erik-thames/) - Meet Erik Thames Legislative Representative Local Number: 1494
- [Travis Payne](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/travis-payne/) - Meet Travis Payne Legislative Representative Local Number: 1525
- [Dennis Nee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/dennis-nee/) - Meet Dennis Nee Executive Committee Local Number: 1895
- [Matt Wright](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board-member/matt-wright/) - Meet Matt Wright Legislative Representative Local Number: 1929

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [News](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/category/news/)

## Stats Types

- [view](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/view/)
- [Chrome](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/chrome/)
- [Windows](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/windows/)
- [Android](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/android/)
- [Firefox](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/firefox/)
- [Macintosh](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/macintosh/)
- [Safari](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/safari/)
- [iPhone](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/iphone/)
- [Amazon Silk](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/amazon-silk/)
- [Fire OS](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/fire-os/)
- [Linux](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/wpa-stats-type/linux/)

## Member Types

- [Executive Committee](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board_member_type/executive-committee/)
- [Legislative Representative](https://www.illini-smarttd.org/board_member_type/legislative-representative/)