Jared Cassidy, National Safety and Legislative Director for the SMART Transportation Division, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss rail safety, the potential Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger and the removal of Surface Transportation Board member Robert Primus. Cassidy highlighted the dangers of longer trains, the need for stronger safety regulations and the impact of industry consolidation on workers and communities.
The proposed buyout of Norfolk Southern by Union Pacific raises significant safety and economic concerns. Cassidy emphasized that Union Pacific has the worst safety record in the industry, with more accidents, injuries and fatalities than other carriers. He warned that if the merger is approved, Union Pacific's policies and procedures could spread across the country, potentially worsening safety conditions and leading to job losses, especially in areas where the two railroads' operations overlap.
Cassidy expressed alarm over Robert Primus's removal from the Surface Transportation Board, calling it "unprecedented and unjustified." Primus was the only board member to oppose a recent railroad merger and was seen as a friend of labor. This move, Cassidy explained, coupled with the timing of the Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern proposal, raises questions about industry influence on regulatory decisions and the potential impact on future merger approvals.
The push for longer trains, some exceeding three miles in length, poses significant safety and logistical challenges. Cassidy explained that these massive trains, weighing up to 40 million pounds, strain existing infrastructure and equipment unsuitable for such loads. The practice has contributed to maintaining high derailment rates despite fewer trains running overall, contradicting industry claims of improved safety. Cassidy called for greater oversight and regulation to address these concerns and prevent future catastrophic incidents like the East Palestine derailment.
To hear more about the critical issues facing the rail industry and the union's efforts to improve safety and working conditions, listen to the full episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast featuring Jared Cassidy.