Nebraska union reacts to Union Pacific changing its tune on crew size

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Union Pacific has become the second major freight railroad in the past week to back away from a longstanding push to cut train crews down to one person.

This comes as lawmakers are raising concerns on rail safety after last month’s derailment in Ohio.  

The Omaha-based railroad said in a statement that it had reached an agreement with the union that represents conductors. 

“This agreement with SMART-TD reflects Union Pacific’s commitment to enhance the quality of life for our employees through predictable, scheduled shift work while giving us greater scheduling flexibility that will also improve customer service,” said Executive Vice President Beth Whited.

A bipartisan bill that’s gaining support in Congress would require railroads to maintain two-person crews. 

A union representing railroad workers in Nebraska said having two people working together can be lifesaving. 

“Two sets of eyes is better than one,” said Jakob Forsgren of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division.

Nebraska State Sen. Mike Jacobson also proposed that requirement at the state level.

But the bill is “being held up” in the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee, Forsgren said.

“In the meantime, Nebraskans aren’t as safe as they could be, and taking action now could shore that up,” he said. “And if the federal government decides they’re not going to rule on it, we already have something in place to keep Nebraskans safe.”