HARRISBURG, Pa. — A bill seeking to introduce a broad range of rail regulations in the wake of the East Palestine, Ohio, derailment easily advanced out of a Pennsylvania House committee on Wednesday, despite concerns voiced by some members that the matter is one for federal, not state, action.
PennLive.com reports that House Bill 1028 was approved by the Consumer Protection, Technology, and Utilities Committee by a 19-2 vote. The bill includes provisions limiting train lengths to 8,500 feet; prohibiting delay of an emergency vehicle at a blocked grade crossing for more than 5 minutes; and requiring two-person crews.
Committee chair Rob Matzie (D-Beaver County), a co-sponsor of the bill with Jim Marshall (R-Beaver County), told PennLive, “We believe we have every right under federal law to implement enhanced safety measures.” He acknowledged those who believe otherwise but said the matter will be determined as the bill proceeds.
The bill also seeks to set standards for reporting and tracking of the transport of hazardous materials, as for the use of wayside detectors.
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