Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced a new rule on Tuesday that mandates two-person crews on railroads to enhance safety. This move comes in the wake of increased scrutiny on rail regulations following the derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, last year.
Speaking at a news conference, Buttigieg stated, "This is a significant step forward for the safety of rail workers, passengers, and communities living near rail lines throughout the country. With this new rule, America's rail system is now safer than ever before."
The provision by the Federal Railroad Administration sets a minimum crew size for all types of trains, including freight, passenger, and commuter services, requiring a minimum of two crew members. Buttigieg emphasized the importance of having a second crew member for various safety operations such as managing track switches and responding to emergencies. Prior to this rule, railroads could opt for a one-person crew without oversight from the Transportation Department.
The Importance of Crew Size in Transportation Safety
Addressing a longstanding concern, the transportation secretary emphasized the need to address crew size in the transportation industry. The recent bridge collapse in Baltimore served as a stark reminder of the critical importance of ensuring the safety of transportation systems across the country.
The transportation secretary highlighted that President Biden has made this issue a priority in order to standardize crew size requirements and improve safety measures nationwide. While the new rule is a step in the right direction, it is not a standalone solution. The department will continue to advocate for industry changes and urge Congress to pass the Railway Safety Act to further enhance rail safety.
Following a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, last year, lawmakers introduced a bipartisan rail safety bill. However, the bill has faced delays in the Senate, raising concerns about its passage due to potential filibusters and lack of sufficient support from Republican lawmakers.
Emphasizing the bipartisan nature of railway safety, the transportation secretary called on Congress to prioritize the passage of the rail safety bill. He stressed that ensuring the safety of railway operations should be a shared goal that transcends political divides.
In light of the recent increase in derailments across the country, with over 1,500 incidents reported since the East Palestine derailment, safety advocates underscored the importance of having two-person crews on trains. These crews serve as a crucial safety measure by providing an initial line of defense before emergency responders can intervene.
