By Forum Staff
Legislation that would establish a central registry containing reports, audits, plans, and public inspections of freight rail operators, rail cars, and freight lines was approved earlier this month by the State Senate, according to Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven), a co-sponsor of the proposed ledger.
“Last year, my bill requiring trash transported by rail to be covered and secured more effectively was enacted into law. This new Senate bill builds on our commitment to ensure residents in rail communities are provided the transparency they deserve regarding freight rail safety,” said Addabbo.
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“Expanding our existing rail safety laws is vital to keeping our communities safe, including quality of life standards and oversight of all freight rail infrastructure components.” Sen. Addabbo said.
Freight train derailments throughout the United States, including in East Palestine, OH, drew attention to the reality that communities could benefit from having access to a central database containing reports, audits, and public inspections for freight rail operators.
More specifically, this bill will help ensure valuable information is accessible to rail communities by requiring the State Department of Transportation to establish a central registry of reports, audits, plans, and public inspections regarding freight rail operators, rail cars, and freight lines or routes and rights of way.
“Expanding our existing rail safety laws is vital to keeping our communities safe, including quality of life standards and oversight of all freight rail infrastructure components. The central registry will provide residents access to important safety records of freight railroads operating in their neighborhood,” added Addabbo.
The proposed legislation is now under review by the Assembly Transportation Committee.
