Plain Language Summary
# RAIL Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The RAIL Act (Reducing Accidents In Locomotives Act) would strengthen safety rules for trains that carry hazardous materials like chemicals or petroleum. It requires the Department of Transportation to create new regulations that would mandate rail companies to notify state emergency responders about hazardous cargo in advance, reduce the time railroad crossings are blocked by trains, and follow specific standards for train length, weight, speed, and emergency response plans. The bill would also require railroads to install and maintain "wayside defect detectors"—devices placed alongside tracks that automatically detect mechanical problems like wheel failures before they cause accidents. **Who It Affects:** Railroad companies and freight carriers would need to comply with the new safety requirements.
State and local emergency response officials would receive advance warning about hazardous material shipments in their areas. The general public would benefit from potentially improved safety, particularly those living near railroad tracks or crossings. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it's still in the early stages of the legislative process and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.
CRS Official Summary
Reducing Accidents In Locomotives Act or the RAIL ActThis 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 (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.Further, DOT must update rail car inspection regulations and audit related inspection programs. This includes prohibiting a railroad from limiting the time required for an employee to complete a railcar, locomotive, or brake safety inspection.The bill alsoincreases the maximum fines DOT may impose on rail carriers for violating safety regulations;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, 2030;expands training for local first responders; andimposes a new fee on certain rail carriers.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.