SMART-MD & Union Pacific: New Rail Agreement Details

SMART-MD and Union Pacific Railroad ratify a new labor agreement, boosting wages, vacations, and benefits.

SMART-MD & Union Pacific: New Rail Agreement Details
September 12, 2025 1:30 pm
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Introduction

Members of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers—Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Department (SMART-MD) ratified a new collective bargaining agreement with Union Pacific Railroad.

Ratification of the Agreement

The union announced the ratification. The number of Union Pacific (UP) employees represented by SMART-MD was not disclosed in a press release.

Agreement Terms

The labor contract is based on the terms of agreements that SMART-MD has reached with other freight-rail carriers, SMART-MD officials said.

Key Improvements

Improvements include annual general wage increases totaling 17.5% (over 18.75% when compounded); paid vacation days for new hires and accelerated accrual of paid vacation for tenured employees; improvements to dental and vision benefits; a new option for a high-deductible health plan with lower monthly costs; and an increase to the monthly opt-out payment for employees who do not have health insurance through UP.

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Conclusion

The SMART-MD union members and Union Pacific Railroad reached a new collective bargaining agreement. The agreement includes wage increases, vacation improvements, and adjustments to health benefits.

Company Summary

International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers—Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Department (SMART-MD): Represents railroad, mechanical, and engineering employees.

Union Pacific Railroad (UP): A freight-rail carrier.

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