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To amend title 49, United States Code, to provide States the authority to limit blocking highway-rail grade crossings, and for other purposes.

8/3/2024, 8:06 AM

Summary of Bill HR 9248

Bill 118 hr 9248, also known as the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety Act, aims to amend title 49 of the United States Code to grant states the power to restrict the blocking of highway-rail grade crossings. This bill is designed to address the issue of trains blocking intersections for extended periods of time, causing traffic congestion and safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians.

The proposed legislation would give states the authority to implement regulations that limit the amount of time a train can block a grade crossing. This would help alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety at these intersections. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for penalties for railroads that violate these regulations, in order to incentivize compliance.

Overall, the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety Act seeks to improve the efficiency and safety of highway-rail grade crossings by empowering states to regulate the blocking of these intersections by trains. This bill aims to address a common issue faced by communities across the country and promote better coordination between railroads and state authorities.

Congressional Summary of HR 9248

Railroad Responsibility Act of 2024

This bill provides states with the authority to adopt or enact any law, regulation, order, or other requirement limiting the duration that a railroad carrier may block a highway-rail grade crossing. Specifically, this bill states that federal transportation laws do not preempt a state from adopting or enacting these limits. 

As background, state and federal courts have generally found that state laws regarding obstructed crossings are preempted by one or more federal laws, thereby rendering the state laws unenforceable.

Current Status of Bill HR 9248

Bill HR 9248 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since August 2, 2024. Bill HR 9248 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on August 2, 2024.  Bill HR 9248's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. as of August 2, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 9248

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 9248

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 9248

To amend title 49, United States Code, to provide States the authority to limit blocking highway-rail grade crossings, and for other purposes.
To amend title 49, United States Code, to provide States the authority to limit blocking highway-rail grade crossings, and for other purposes.

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