Iowa Senate Bill SF492

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 6/5/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the operation of railroad trains by a crew of two or more persons, and providing penalties.(Formerly SF 243.)

Summary

Senate File 492 introduces regulations concerning the operation of railroad trains, mandating that trains operated by class I and class II rail carriers must have a crew of at least two qualified railroad employees. This legislation aims to enhance safety protocols in rail transportation by ensuring that no train operates with a single crew member, thus minimizing risks associated with operator fatigue and emergencies that may arise during transit. The bill is a successor to SF 243, indicating it's part of a responsive legislative action to address safety concerns in the rail industry. The penalties for non-compliance are structured to increase based on the frequency of offenses. A railroad company found in violation of this crew size requirement faces escalating fines, starting from $500 for a first offense, rising to a maximum of $10,000 for repeat offenses. Such a tiered penalty system aims both to deter future violations and to enforce compliance consistently across the industry. The bill was designed to recognize the importance of adequate crew sizes in maintaining safe operational standards on railroads. Discussions surrounding SF 492 have illuminated debates regarding the balance of operational efficiency versus safety within the rail sector. Proponents argue that requiring a minimum crew size directly supports the safety of passengers and freight operations, while critics may express concerns regarding the potential economic implications for rail companies, especially smaller carriers that might struggle with increased labor costs. The bill has garnered unanimous support in the Senate, with a vote of 17-0 recorded on March 2, signifying a collective agreement on the necessity of such measures for public safety in transportation. As rail transport continues to play a vital role in the movement of goods and people across jurisdictions, the implementation of SF 492 is positioned as a crucial step towards reinforcing safety in this essential industry.