Relating to railroad crew size requirements; imposing a civil penalty.
The bill introduces civil penalties for railroad companies that fail to comply with the crew size mandate. Violations will incur fines ranging from $250 to $1,000 for first offenses, escalating to between $5,000 and $10,000 for third or subsequent violations occurring within a three-year timeframe. This tiered penalty system serves not only as a deterrent against safety protocol infringements but also positions the state government to take legal action through the attorney general or local district attorneys, thus ensuring enforcement mechanisms are in place.
House Bill 977 addresses the crew size requirements for railroads operating in Texas, establishing a minimum requirement of two crew members for the movement of freight trains or light engines. The bill specifies that a railroad utility employee does not count as a crew member under these regulations. By enforcing this requirement, the legislation aims to enhance safety protocols within the railroad industry, ensuring adequate manpower for operational tasks that may be critical to safe train movement.
The introduction of HB 977 may be met with resistance from railroad companies that argue against the imposition of strict crew size regulations, citing operational flexibility and increased labor costs as concerns. Opponents of the bill may raise questions regarding its impact on the overall efficiency of train operations. Conversely, supporters may argue that a larger crew is vital for maintaining high safety standards, especially considering the potential risks associated with train operations. The discussion surrounding this bill will likely focus on balancing safety with economic factors in the freight transport sector.