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To enhance safety requirements for trains transporting hazardous materials, and for other purposes.
2/5/2025, 9:20 AM
Summary of Bill HR 928
Specifically, the bill mandates that rail carriers must develop and implement comprehensive safety plans for the transportation of hazardous materials, including measures to prevent derailments, leaks, and other accidents. The bill also requires rail carriers to conduct regular safety inspections of their equipment and infrastructure to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to improve communication and coordination between rail carriers, emergency responders, and local communities in the event of a hazardous materials incident. This includes requirements for rail carriers to provide timely and accurate information to emergency responders about the types and quantities of hazardous materials being transported, as well as training for emergency responders on how to safely respond to incidents involving hazardous materials. Overall, Bill 119 HR 928 aims to enhance the safety of trains transporting hazardous materials by implementing stricter safety regulations and improving communication and coordination between stakeholders. By doing so, the bill seeks to reduce the risk of accidents and minimize the impact of hazardous materials incidents on public safety and the environment.
Congressional Summary of HR 928
Railway Safety Act of 2025
This bill addresses safety requirements for rail carriers and trains transporting hazardous materials.
Specifically, the Department of Transportation (DOT) must issue safety regulations for trains carrying hazardous materials to require that rail carriers or shippers (1) provide state emergency response commissioners with advance notice and information about the hazardous materials; (2) reduce blocked rail crossings; and (3) comply with certain requirements regarding train length and weight specifications, track standards, speed restrictions, and response plans.
DOT must also establish requirements for wayside defect detectors. These are used by railway systems alongside the tracks to detect defects and failures (e.g., wheel bearing failures). Current federal regulations do not require their use, but federal guidance does address their placement and use. Under the bill, DOT must issue regulations establishing requirements for the installation, repair, testing, maintenance, and operation of wayside defect detectors for each rail carrier operating a train carrying hazardous materials.
The bill also
- increases the maximum fines DOT may impose on rail carriers for violating safety regulations;
- requires DOT to update rail car inspection regulations and audit the federal inspection programs;
- establishes a statutory requirement for freight trains to have at least two crew members, with exceptions;
- phases out certain railroad tank cars by May 1, 2027;
- expands training for local first responders;
- imposes a new fee on certain rail carriers; and
- authorizes grants to improve railway safety.
