One Hundred Ninth Legislature - First Session - 2025
Introducer€s Statement of Intent
LB37
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Chairperson: Senator Mike Moser
Committee: Transportation and Telecommunications
Date of Hearing: March 10, 2025
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The following constitutes the reasons for this bill and the purposes which are sought to be
accomplished thereby:
LB 37 establishes the Railroad Safety Act, which seeks to clarify rail safety procedures in the State of Nebraska.
The bill clarifies that a Class I railroad shall not operate a train carrying hazardous substances that has a length
greater than 8,500 feet on any mainline.€
LB 37 also requires railroads operating on mainlines to have an operational, properly maintaining wayside
detector system. This includes hot bearings and dragging equipment detectors. These detectors must be installed
at least every twenty (20) miles along a mainline. Additionally, railroads must submit an annual report to
the Public Service Commission (PSC) detailing each installed detectors location, type, operational status, and
characteristics.€
The bill also clarifies that a public crossing cannot be blocked for longer than 10 minutes unless the train,
freight car, passenger car, or railroad transportation engine is continuously moving or if circumstances beyond
the railroad‚s control prevent it from being moved. The bill also provides that a designated union representative
may enter a railroad‚s place of operation to investigate a report after providing reasonable notice.
LB 37 also requires railroads to provide hazardous materials training to fire departments along their tracks at
least once every three (3) years. Finally, the bill provides fines for violating provisions within the bill.€
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Principal Introducer:________________________________
Senator Mike Jacobson
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