Railway Safety Act of 2026

Enhanced Train Safety through Speed Limits: The bill would require the Secretary to limit all trains to a maximum speed of 50 miles per hour, and high-hazard trains carrying flammable liquids to a maximum of 40 miles per hour in high-threat urban areas. (Section 102(b)(2))

Improved Information Sharing for First Responders: Class I railroads would be required to provide real-time electronic train consist information to fusion centers and prohibits withholding this information from first responders during emergencies. (Section 102(b)(4) and (7))

Increased Safety for Long Trains: The Secretary is tasked with evaluating safety concerns regarding train length and weight to update regulations accordingly. (Section 103(a))

Reduction of Blocked Crossings: The bill mandates a study by the National Academy of Sciences to find solutions for preventing or reducing blocked highway-rail grade crossings. (Section 104(a))

Strengthened Inspection Requirements: The bill prohibits railroads from limiting the time required for employees to complete safety inspections of railcars, locomotives, and brake systems. (Section 105(a))

Improved Defect Detection: The bill requires Class I railroads to implement defect detector networks to identify unsafe equipment or operations. (Section 107(d))

Mandatory Crew Sizes: Freight trains operated by Class I railroads would be required to have a minimum 2-person crew, consisting of a conductor and a locomotive engineer. (Section 108(b))

Emergency Financial Assistance: An assistance program would provide immediate financial help to communities responding to significant hazardous materials transportation incidents, covering costs like overtime and personal protective equipment. (Section s 204(2) and (6))

Increased Penalties for Railroads: The bill increases civil penalties for violating safety regulations, with maximum fines reaching $5,000,000 if the violation results in death, serious illness, or severe injury. (Section 109(a)(3))

New Fees for Hazardous Materials Registration: The bill establishes an annual fee for persons required to file registration statements for hazardous materials, with higher fees for those not identified as small businesses. (Section 201(a)(2))

Potential Impact on Commerce: The phase-out of certain tank cars could be delayed if manufacturing capacity is insufficient or if there are significant impacts to interstate commerce. (Section 110(c))