Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act
Impact
The impact of HB2999 on state laws would involve adjustments to existing emergency management protocols and funding provisions. If enacted, the bill could lead to the creation of new programs or initiatives focused on training and resources specific to train crises. Supporters of the bill argue that enhanced preparedness for such incidents is crucial and that providing assistance to local heroes fosters stronger community safety measures. Conversely, critics express concerns about the allocation of funds and whether this act might divert resources away from other essential emergency services.
Summary
House Bill 2999, known as the Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act, aims to provide support and assistance to local emergency responders during train-related crises. The bill recognizes the unique challenges faced by first responders when dealing with incidents involving trains, particularly given the increasing frequency of such events and the potential for significant public safety risks. Through this bill, the state seeks to ensure that local heroes are equipped with the necessary resources and support to effectively manage these emergencies.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding HB2999 revolves around the funding mechanisms proposed for assisting local responders. While proponents argue that these funds are necessary to ensure timely and effective responses to train emergencies, opponents raise questions about the sustainability of such funding and the potential implications for budget allocations in other critical areas of public safety. Additionally, discussions have emerged regarding the adequacy of current training for local heroes, with some advocates calling for comprehensive evaluations of existing programs before implementing new assistance measures.
Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises ActThis bill establishes a Hazardous Train Event Emergency Reimbursement Fund for state and local emergency response groups.Upon a declaration by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) that a hazardous train event has occurred, the FRA must immediately award at least $250,000 from the emergency fund to one or more eligible groups (e.g., law enforcement agencies and fire departments). Additional amounts may be awarded, but may not exceed $3 million per hazardous train event. The FRA may declare a hazardous train event has occurred following a derailment or crash involving a train carrying hazardous materials, hazardous waste, or other materials that pose a threat to public health, safety, and the environment.Costs associated with a response to a hazardous train event that are eligible for reimbursement include (1) replacing damaged or contaminated equipment, (2) overtime pay for firefighters or law enforcement officers, and (3) retroactively covering these types of incurred costs after the event date.The FRA must also (1) establish annual fees for shippers and carriers of hazardous materials by rail that have total annual collections of at least $10 million, and (2) deposit the fees into the reimbursement fund.Further, the Department of Transportation must issue regulations requiring railroads that transport hazardous materials by train to provide county and local emergency response groups with (1) advance warning of the train's load and timing, and (2) real-time location information on the train when it enters and exits the community's service area.