The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division commends members for providing evidence that helped challenge a major railroad safety rollback proposal. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently granted a waiver allowing railroads to reduce visual track inspections from twice-weekly to once weekly on certain subdivisions. However, this waiver is narrow, temporary, and heavily conditioned—thanks to BMWED’s efforts proving that reducing inspections poses serious safety risks.

BMWED emphasizes that automated systems cannot replace the judgment of trained inspectors and warns that fewer inspections endanger workers, communities, and the environment. The organization also refutes claims by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) that BMWED opposes TGMS technology, clarifying that the real issue is AAR’s push for weaker regulations to increase profits. BMWED vows to monitor the waiver closely and urges members to continue documenting defects and hazards to hold carriers accountable.

Key Points:

• FRA waiver limits inspection reduction but only under strict conditions.
• BMWED evidence prevented a broad rollback of safety standards.
• Automated systems cannot fully replace human inspectors.
• AAR’s narrative prioritizes profit over safety.
• Members are urged to stay vigilant and report all hazards.

Click or Tap HERE to read President Cardwell's full statement.

In an effort to broaden our communication and keep members better informed, we’re excited to announce that we’re now active on multiple social media platforms!

These channels will allow us to share timely updates, important announcements, event information, and other relevant content directly with you—wherever you are.

Stay connected and be part of the conversation by following us on the platforms below:

Click this box to submit your concerns and suggestions that you would like to see in a future contract. 

Attention Members!

Please be sure to update your Met Life Beneficiary Form!

Please take a minute to review and update your beneficiaries for all relevant accounts and benefits. Ensuring your beneficiary information is up-to-date helps protect your loved ones and guarantees your benefits are distributed according to your wishes.

Click here to access the Met Life Beneficiary information sheet. 

JOE MONTANA JERSEY GIVEAWAY

Exciting news for BSD members! Thanks to the generous donation from the Casey Jones Law Firm, you could win an autographed Joe Montana jersey!

Every lodge meeting you attend earns you another entry into the drawing. So, the more meetings you attend, the better your chances of winning this legendary piece of sports memorabilia. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity! Find out when you lodge meeting is scheduled on our EVENTS CALENDAR!

CALLING THEM OUT

This video highlights what Rail Labor has been thinking for decades! Please watch it and share it with your friends and family. The reductions in the railroad workforce have had a devastating impact, not only on Rail Labor but also on the communities that rely on rail transportation for hazardous materials. Let's all stand with Rail Labor for ALL of our safety and well-being.

Check your Form BA-6 from the RRB!

The RRB will be sending out Form BA-6 in the latter part of June. It is extremely important to review these forms for accuracy and file a protest (Form G-70) as soon as possible. If a protest is filed with the RRB, you will need to provide proof of compensation from the Carrier in that month to receive credit or military orders that clearly show service in the disputed month. 

The G-70 forms are available on the RRB tab within Member Resources menu.