Maryland Senate Advances Two-Person Crew Bill, Putting Rail Safety First

Maryland Senate leadership announced its intent to advance Two-Person Crew (2-PC) rail safety legislation to Governor Wes Moore’s desk, marking a major victory for the safety of workers and communities across the state. The bill is expected to move out of the Senate Finance Committee and pass the full chamber ahead of the legislative session’s close.

Driven by months of grassroots advocacy, the effort was led by SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) members who testified, met with lawmakers, and pushed for action in Annapolis. This legislation is rooted in a simple principle: protecting lives. With rail lines crossing nearly every corner of Maryland, requiring a minimum of two qualified crew members on freight trains is a common-sense safety measure designed to prevent disasters and protect both rail workers and the public. This is not about any one union. It is about the safety and wellbeing of every Marylander.

Maryland State Safety and Legislative Director David Pendleton, in his second year in the role, credited the union’s membership and local leadership. “This was a total team effort,” Pendleton said. “Our members showed up. They made the calls, they gave testimony, and they carried the message. I witnessed top to bottom incredible leadership from our local officers across Maryland. In our office, Tom Cahill and Brittany Garris were sensational and Nationally, Brother Directors Cassity and Roach went above and beyond to make sure we had all of the support we needed to deliver this to our members! I could not be more proud of what everyone accomplished together.”